How to Create a Realistic Fiction Character

When writing a story or novel, some writers start by thinking of a theme, plot, or a particular scene. But even if they start this way, it isn't long before they have to think about the characters that will move the story along. The best stories are about people--or animals or things with human characteristics--so it is important to create realistic fictional characters for your stories.

Things You'll Need

• Index cards or small notebook

Instructions

1. Give your character a name. You will be working with this character for awhile, so choose a name that you like and that fits your character. Try not to make the name too difficult--you don't want your reader to have to keep stumbling over it.

2. Create a short biography for your character. Using index cards or a small notebook, list physical characteristics for your character, such as age, height, weight and hair color. Then, describe personality traits such as the character's temperament, moral and ethical standards, hobbies and habits, fears and phobias. Having a list of these characteristics will help you to remain consistent as you move through the story.

3. Get to know your character. View the world through her eyes. How does she react to her world? If you can't picture how she will react in different situations, it will be difficult for your reader to do so too.

4. Do your homework. Learn all you can about the character's profession. If you are writing historical fiction, research the time period carefully. Time spent researching will pay off by helping you to create realistic fictional characters that jump off the page.

5. Think about your character's problems. Give him a goal and a moral decision to make, and place a few obstacles in his path. The protagonist, in particular, should survive an enormous struggle, but all characters must have crisis points in order to keep them interesting.

Tips & Warnings

• Some writers find it helpful to look in magazines, newspapers or the Internet and find a "picture" of a character. Hanging this image near your desk with a brief bio beneath is a great visual image that might help you as you work.

Resources

• Fiction Factor provides information on creating memorable characters.
• The Scribblepad website provides a wealth of information for fiction writers.
• Apocalypse Papers features an article on creating a perfect character.