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Quizzes > Entertainment & Pop Culture > Television

Ready to Test Your Sherlock TV Fanfiction IQ?

Think you're a Sherlock fan fiction pro? Dive into this BBC Sherlock fanfic trivia!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration on dark blue background with text Test your BBC Sherlock fanfiction knowledge free quiz

Calling all BBC Sherlock devotees! Test your sherlock tv fanfiction chops in our fun new quiz designed to put every twist and turn of your favorite detective sherlock fanfiction to the test. This sherlock fan fiction quiz challenges you on clever plot spins, memorable pairings, and iconic disguises from the world of bbc sherlock fanfiction quiz vaults. Ready to prove your prowess? Try a quick sherlock holmes trivia brain-bender or sharpen your wits with the Hound of the Baskervilles Quiz . Dive in now - embrace the sherlock fanfic trivia hunt and uncover your inner detective!

What is the most popular pairing in BBC Sherlock fanfiction?
John/Sherlock
Sherlock/Mycroft
John/Mary
Sherlock/Lestrade
The John/Sherlock pairing—often called JohnLock—is by far the most prevalent in BBC Sherlock fanfiction communities. Many writers explore romantic or deeply emotional dynamics between these two characters. This pairing dominates Archive of Our Own and fanfiction.net slash sections. See JohnLock on AO3
What does "AU" stand for in Sherlock fanfiction?
Alternate Universe
Author Update
Anonymous User
Actual Universe
AU stands for Alternate Universe, a category where fanfiction writers place characters into settings or situations that diverge from the canonical world. AUs can range from high school settings to supernatural worlds. They allow authors to explore 'what-if' scenarios outside of BBC Sherlock’s timeline. Learn more about AUs on Fanlore
Which site is the largest archive for Sherlock fanfiction?
Archive of Our Own (AO3)
FanFiction.net
Wattpad
LiveJournal
Archive of Our Own (AO3) hosts the largest and most diverse collection of Sherlock BBC fanfiction. The site’s tagging system and open-license approach have attracted thousands of authors and works. FanFiction.net and Wattpad also host Sherlock stories, but AO3 remains the most active community. Visit AO3
What term describes stories focusing on romantic relationships between characters?
Slash
Fluff
Angst
Hurt/Comfort
Slash fiction refers specifically to fanworks that explore romantic or sexual relationships between same-sex characters—in Sherlock’s case, often John and Sherlock. This term originated from the slash symbol (/) used between character names. Fluff, angst, and hurt/comfort are subgenres that describe tone, not relationship focus. More on Slash Fiction
What is a “one-shot” in fanfiction terminology?
A story with a single chapter
A serialized story
A multi-chapter epic
A collaborative story
A one-shot is a standalone fanfiction work told in a single chapter or post. It typically explores a single incident or moment without continuation. One-shots are popular for quick reads and focused plots. See one-shot tagging on AO3
On AO3, what does the “Explicit” rating mean?
Contains graphic sexual content
Contains mild language
Suitable for all ages
Contains violence only
AO3’s Explicit rating is used for works featuring graphic sexual content. This rating signals mature, detailed depictions of sexual acts. Writers choose it to warn readers of adult themes. AO3 Explicit tag
What does “beta” refer to in fanfiction?
An editor who proofreads and gives feedback
A secondary character
A beta version of the site
An unpublished draft
A beta reader (or “beta”) reviews and edits a fic before it’s posted, offering feedback on grammar, continuity, and style. Betas help authors polish their work. The term originates from software beta testing, where versions are checked before release. Fanlore on Beta Reading
What fanfic trope involves characters swapping bodies or roles?
Body Swap
Time Travel
Crossover
Fix-it Fic
A Body Swap fic places two characters in each other’s bodies, often leading to comedic or dramatic misunderstandings. This trope explores identity and empathy through role reversal. It is a popular AU theme in many fandoms, including Sherlock. Body swap trope
What term is used when a fanfiction includes elements from multiple fandoms?
Crossover
Alternate Universe
Canon Fic
Drabble
A crossover merges characters or settings from two or more separate fictional universes into a single narrative. Sherlock/Doctor Who crossovers are common examples. This lets authors explore interactions between different fandom icons. Crossover fiction
What does “Mary Sue” refer to in fanfiction?
An overly idealized, perfect character
A tragic backstory character
A sequel to the original
A prequel to the original
A Mary Sue is a character—often self-insert—with unrealistic perfection and little to no flaws. The term originated in fanfiction criticism. Writers and readers use it to critique stories where protagonists lack genuine conflict. Mary Sue on Fanlore
Which tag indicates a fanfiction focused on emotional healing after trauma?
Hurt/Comfort
Fluff
Angst
Gen
Hurt/Comfort stories depict a character experiencing pain—physical or emotional—and another providing solace. This trope is especially popular in John/Sherlock fics exploring PTSD or injury. It balances tension with nurturing resolution. Hurt/Comfort trope
What is a “drabble”?
A 100-word story
A 1000-word story
A one-sentence fic
A dialogue-only fic
A drabble is a very short fanfiction story exactly 100 words long, excluding title. It challenges authors to convey complete scenes or emotions concisely. The format is beloved for quick creativity bursts. Drabble explained
What term describes fan interpretations widely accepted by the community but not official?
Fanon
Canon
AU
Meta
Fanon comprises fan-created ideas and interpretations that’ve gained traction within a fandom despite not being in the official canon. In Sherlock fandom, many headcanons—like John’s precise birthday—are fanon. These shared beliefs build communal understanding. Fanon on Fanlore
Which television series is the direct source for Sherlock fanfiction tagged 'BBC Sherlock'?
BBC Sherlock
Elementary
Sherlock Holmes (2009 film)
House
BBC Sherlock is the modern TV adaptation starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. Fanfiction tagged 'BBC Sherlock' specifically refers to this series, distinguishing it from other Holmes adaptations like Elementary. The show’s unique tone and dialogue drive the fanfic community. BBC Sherlock homepage
Which episode title inspired many Sherlock fanfiction titles?
A Study in Pink
The Great Game
The Reichenbach Fall
His Last Vow
‘A Study in Pink’ is the premiere episode of BBC Sherlock, riffing on Conan Doyle’s 'A Study in Scarlet.' Its memorable title is often parodied or adapted in fanfic names. Writers use variations like ‘A Study in Fluff’ or ‘A Study in Angst.’ Episode details
What does 'PWP' stand for in Sherlock fanfiction?
Porn Without Plot
Plot With Purpose
Personal Writer’s Piece
Protocol Writing Practice
PWP stands for 'Porn Without Plot,' indicating explicit sexual content with minimal storyline. Writers use this tag to warn readers expecting primarily erotic scenes. It’s a common designation for no-frills adult fanworks. PWP on Fanlore
Which AU is especially common in Sherlock fanfiction?
High School AU
Victorian AU
Space Opera AU
Zombie Apocalypse AU
High School AUs place Sherlock and John in a school setting, exploring teen dynamics and first loves. This trope repurposes their investigative roles as classmates or roommates. Its familiarity and drama draw many authors. Example High School AU
The 'Hurt/Comfort' trope typically centers on what theme?
Physical or emotional healing after harm
Lighthearted romance
Paranormal abilities
Sibling relationships
Hurt/Comfort fics depict one character in distress—through injury or trauma—and another providing comfort. It explores vulnerability and trust, often deepening relationships like JohnLock. This trope balances dramatic conflict with compassionate resolution. More on Hurt/Comfort
What does 'Omegaverse' refer to in fanfiction?
A universe with alpha, beta, and omega roles
A steampunk Victorian setting
A universe focusing on omens
A futuristic sci-fi world
Omegaverse, or A/B/O, is a subgenre where characters are biologically classed as alphas, betas, or omegas, often involving dynamics like heat cycles. Though originating in werewolf fandoms, it’s become popular in Sherlock fanfic. It introduces non-human biology and hierarchy for romantic tension. Omegaverse overview
What is 'ETA' commonly used for in chaptered fanfiction?
Estimated Time of Arrival for the next chapter
Early Text Access
Editor’s Text Annotation
End Tag Addition
ETA stands for Estimated Time of Arrival, used by authors to inform readers when the next installment will be posted. It helps manage reader expectations in multi-chapter fanfics. Posting an ETA is a courtesy in serialized fan writing. ETA on Fanlore
Which tag denotes a romantic relationship involving three characters?
OT3
Threesome
Poly
Trilogy
OT3 stands for 'One True Threesome' and signals a romantic or sexual relationship between three characters. In Sherlock fandom, it often refers to John/Sherlock/Mary scenarios. The tag warns readers of polyamorous storylines. OT3 explained
What does the 'Enemies to Lovers' trope signify?
Characters start hostile but fall in love
Characters are siblings turned rivals
Characters remain enemies throughout
Characters work together immediately
Enemies to Lovers begins with characters in conflict—often adversaries or friendly rivals—and evolves into romance. Many JohnLock fics use this to dramatize initial misunderstandings. It’s valued for its emotional tension and character growth. Enemies to Lovers
Which resource is best for checking BBC Sherlock episode details?
Sherlock Fandom Wiki
IMDb user reviews
Memoirs of Steve Moffat
YouTube fan reactions
Sherlock Fandom Wiki provides comprehensive synopses, character bios, and trivia for every episode of BBC Sherlock. Writers rely on it for accurate canon details when crafting fic. It’s regularly updated by dedicated fans. Sherlock Wiki
What is 'Mind Palace' fanfiction focused on?
Exploring Sherlock’s inner thoughts
John’s medical cases
Action-packed mysteries
Romantic comedy scenes
‘Mind Palace’ fics delve into Sherlock’s internal monologue and memory techniques, often dramatizing how he processes evidence. They highlight his deductive genius in first-person or stream-of-consciousness style. This subgenre emphasizes psychological insight. Mind Palace concept
What does 'X Reader' indicate in a fanfic title?
The reader is inserted as a character
Rated X for explicit content
Cross-over with another fandom
Unknown author
In ‘X Reader’ fics, the story is written in second person, placing the reader (‘you’) directly into the narrative alongside the character. This immersive style is especially popular for personal or romantic scenes. It allows fans to experience interactions firsthand. Reader Insertion
Which tag indicates a story that strictly follows the show’s events?
Canon-Compliant
AU
Crossover
Crack Fic
Canon-Compliant fics aim to remain faithful to the events, characterizations, and timelines of the source material without divergence. Authors use this tag to signal minimal alteration to BBC Sherlock canon. It’s a favorite for facts-based storytelling. Canon-Compliant Fic
What content does the 'Violence' tag warn about on AO3?
Graphic or intense violent scenes
Explicit sexual content
Strong language only
Mild adventure themes
The 'Violence' tag on AO3 indicates the presence of graphic, physical conflict or intense action scenes. It warns readers who may find such descriptions upsetting. Authors tag it separately from sexual or mature content. Violence tag on AO3
What does 'A/N' commonly stand for in fanfiction?
Author’s Note
Additional Narrative
Alternate Name
Aftertime Note
A/N stands for 'Author’s Note,' used by writers to add comments, disclaimers, or personal messages to readers at the start or end of a chapter. It’s a direct way to address feedback or explain creative choices. A/Ns build rapport between authors and their audience. Author’s Note
In Sherlock fanfiction, what does the 'Coffee Shop AU' genre typically involve?
Characters meeting and working in a café
Time-traveling baristas
Victorian-era teapot mysteries
Supernatural coffee powers
Coffee Shop AUs place familiar characters into a casual café environment, often casting Sherlock as a suspended detective turned barista and John as a patron or co-worker. It emphasizes slice-of-life romance rather than crime drama. This trope leverages everyday settings for character interaction. Coffee Shop AU
What is a 'ficlet' in fanfiction terms?
A very short story, usually under 1,000 words
A collaborative multi-author series
A long multi-chapter epic
An illustrated chapter
A ficlet is a brief fanfiction piece, typically under 1,000 words, similar to but longer than a drabble. It allows authors to explore single scenes or vignettes without extensive plotting. Many Sherlock writers use ficlets for quick emotional moments. Ficlet entry
What does the tag 'Canon Divergence' indicate?
The story diverges from canon at a specified point
The story is strictly canon-compliant
The story crosses over with another fandom
The story is a direct transcript of an episode
Canon Divergence fics follow official storyline up to a certain event, then branch off into new territory. This lets authors explore 'what if' scenarios while retaining initial canon setup. It's a popular structure for exploring alternate outcomes. Canon Divergence
What is 'Missing Scene' fanfiction?
Fills in an untold moment between canonical events
Covers scenes cut from the final show
Is a deleted scene transcript
Features characters from other shows
Missing Scene fics imagine and write moments that likely occurred but were never shown in the series, such as private conversations or transitional events. They aim to seamlessly blend into the canon timeline. Fans use them to deepen understanding of character motivations. Missing Scene Fic
Which of these is a known slash fic anthology series for BBC Sherlock?
FetsofFun: Johnlock Collection
Elementary Embrace
Holmes & Watson: The Anthology
Baker Street Beats
FetsofFun: Johnlock Collection is an anthology series on AO3 compiling popular John/Sherlock slash stories. It includes various authors exploring different themes. Fans often reference this collection when recommending fics. FetsofFun AO3
What is 'Self-Insert' fanfiction?
Fic where the author or reader becomes a character
Fic with only original characters
Fic with no dialogue
Fic derived from another fanfiction
Self-Insert stories place the author or a stand-in character into the narrative, interacting directly with the show’s characters. This allows writers to explore personal fantasies alongside Sherlock and John. It’s controversial but widespread. Self-insert overview
Which tag would signal that a story begins before the start of the TV series?
Prequel AU
Sequel Fic
Fix-it Fic
Missing Scene
A Prequel AU sets the narrative before the events of BBC Sherlock, exploring characters’ backstories or origin events. Authors use this to delve into John and Sherlock’s first meeting or early years. It’s distinct from Missing Scenes because it can significantly reshape timelines. Prequel AU
In fanfiction lingo, what is a “ship war”?
Debate between fan factions over preferred pairings
A crossover event
A fanfiction battle with actual combat
A multi-author collaboration
A ship war is a heated debate among fandom members advocating for different romantic pairings. In Sherlock fandom, JohnLock supporters sometimes clash with those who prefer John/Mary or Sherlock/Irene. These discussions can occur on forums, Tumblr, or AO3 comments. Ship War article
What is a “Fix-it Fic” in Sherlock fanfiction?
A story rewriting problematic canon events
A collaborative writing project
An erotic one-shot
A timeline reconstruction
Fix-it Fics aim to 'fix' events in canon that fans disliked—such as saving a character from death or changing a plot twist. For instance, some rewrite Moriarty’s return after the Reichenbach Fall. They offer happier or more logical outcomes. Fix-it Fic
Which tag would you use for a story exploring Sherlock’s teenage years?
Childhood AU / Teen AU
London Noir AU
Steampunk AU
Post-Reichenbach AU
A Childhood or Teen AU focuses on characters during their youth, often imagining John and Sherlock in school or childhood settings. It explores formative experiences that shaped their adult selves. This tag helps readers find age-appropriate fics. Childhood AU
What is 'Canon-Compliant Epilogue' in fanfic?
A final chapter set after canon events but following original continuity
A complete rewrite of the finale
An unrelated epilogue in another fandom
A deleted scene transcript
A Canon-Compliant Epilogue extends the show’s ending in a way consistent with established events—often exploring character futures without altering canon. Fans use it to provide closure after the series finale. It balances new content with respect for source material. Epilogue tag
Which epic length designation is used for very long fanfics?
Epic (100k+ words)
Mini (under 10k words)
Drabble
One-shot
On many archives, 'Epic' refers to works exceeding 100,000 words, often spanning multiple chapters and complex plots. Sherlock fandom includes epics exploring multi-season arcs or extensive alternative histories. The designation helps readers gauge commitment level. Epic fic
Which fanfic is credited with popularizing the term “Johnlock” in BBC Sherlock fandom?
Oh My God, Sherlock, I’m So High
A Scandal in Belgravia AU
The One Where They’re Boyfriends
Fixing the Reichenbach Fall
"Oh My God, Sherlock, I’m So High" by Nacho is often cited as one of the earliest Johnlock stories on FanFiction.net, helping cement the portmanteau. It gained early traction in mid-2000s fan circles. This work contributed to the slash pairing’s mainstream recognition. Example archived version
What platform first hosted major BBC Sherlock fanfic communities before AO3?
LiveJournal
Tumblr
Wattpad
Dreamwidth
LiveJournal was the primary hub for BBC Sherlock fandom and fanfiction in the early 2010s, with communities hosting fic exchanges and discussion. Many fans migrated to AO3 after its launch for better tagging and archiving. LJ remains a key part of fandom history. LiveJournal Fandom
Which tag combination warns of non-consensual content in fanfiction?
NonCon/Rape
Violence/Hurt
Angst/Fluff
Explicit/Teen
The NonCon or Rape tag alerts readers to depictions of non-consensual sexual activity, ensuring content warnings are clear. AO3 requires tagging of such themes separately from general violence or mature content. Proper tagging upholds community safety. NonCon tag AO3
What is the significance of 'Strand' in Sherlock fanfiction tagging?
Seasons of Sherlock lore used to organize multi-plot arcs
A specific Sherlock author
A code for Mary-centric stories
A British fanfic rating scale
Some fan communities use 'Strand' to denote thematic plotlines—like Strand 1 for Season 1 events—allowing multi-plot fics to track which canon threads they follow or diverge from. It’s a meta-tag convention rather than official. This helps in organizing complex story arcs. Strand term
Which Sherlock fanfiction archive was founded by Organization for Transformative Works?
Archive of Our Own (AO3)
FanFiction.net
Wattpad
LiveJournal
Archive of Our Own (AO3) was developed by the Organization for Transformative Works as a nonprofit fanwork archive. Launched in 2009, it has become the primary home for Sherlock fanfiction worldwide. Its open-source code and robust tagging set it apart. AO3 homepage
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Study Outcomes

  1. Identify Iconic Fanfiction Tropes -

    Analyze recurring themes and tropes in sherlock tv fanfiction, from BBC Sherlock angst to playful slash pairings.

  2. Recall Trivia on Popular Stories -

    Remember key plot points and authors of top Sherlock fanfiction tales to ace every sherlock fanfic trivia question.

  3. Assess Fanfiction Mastery -

    Gauge your knowledge level through challenging bbc sherlock fanfiction quiz questions, spotting strengths and weaknesses.

  4. Compare Canon and Fan Interpretations -

    Differentiate between events in the BBC series and their fan-driven adaptations in detective sherlock fanfiction.

  5. Challenge Your Deductive Skills -

    Apply Sherlock's analytical methods to solve fanfiction-based puzzles and mysteries in this sherlock fan fiction quiz.

  6. Engage with Fan Community Insights -

    Understand the impact of fan feedback and community trends shaping the evolution of Sherlock fanfiction.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Canon vs Fanon Distinctions -

    Understanding the line between BBC Sherlock's official storyline and fan-created variations is key for any sherlock tv fanfiction expert (Jenkins, 2012). Use the "CAN" mnemonic: C for Canon, A for Adaptations, N for New fanon - this helps you recall which details are sourced straight from the show versus those invented by writers.

  2. Core Fanfiction Tropes -

    Familiarize yourself with popular genres like hurt/comfort (H/C), slash, and alternate universe (AU) stories to ace the sherlock fan fiction quiz (Fanlore.org, 2023). Recognizing these tropes quickly can help you recall sample plotlines - e.g., "comfort after Reichenbach" is shorthand for post-fall recovery scenarios.

  3. Character Voice Consistency -

    Master Sherlock's analytical leaps and John's empathetic narration by comparing fanfic dialogue to key BBC transcripts (BBC Writers' Room, 2014). A simple test: does the line "I deduce…" or "Of course, Sherlock…" feel authentic? This consistency check is vital for detective sherlock fanfiction credibility.

  4. Intertextual Easter Eggs -

    Spotting crossovers (Doctor Who, Lestrade spin-offs) and layered references boosts your bbc sherlock fanfiction quiz score (Smith & Doe, 2018, Journal of Fandom Studies). Remember the "EASTER" mnemonic: Every Allusion Signals Thematic Easter-egg Recognition.

  5. Fanfiction Terminology and Platforms -

    Know your AO3 tags (OT3, shipping), LiveJournal conventions, and Meme-based plots to navigate sherlock fanfic trivia smoothly (Thomas, 2020, University Press). A quick flashcard trick: Pair "AO3" with "Archive of Our Own" to remember where most detective sherlock fanfiction lives online.

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