How to Create Effective Characters

Solid, believable characters are crucial to a good story. Writers should avoid creating two-dimensional characters that readers can't relate to. Here are some ways to write well-rounded characters that readers can connect with as they read your story.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer
• Pen or paper and pencil (if not using a computer)
• Character sheets (optional)

1. Get to know your protagonist and antagonist. You can't write effective characters without knowing your characters extremely well.
2. Interview your characters. You can do this formally with a questionnaire or character sheets, or you can think about it as you write. Don't just focus on the physical, but dig deep into the character's psyche. What is his world view? Biggest fear? Passionate desire? Deep secret?
3. Don't make your characters too perfect. Give your protagonists a flaw that makes them human.
4. Don't make your villains one-dimensional. Give them a redeeming or empathetic quality.
5. Choose a name that reflects the character's personality. Certain names reflect certain characteristics or types. Joe and Max are considered "strong" names. Ernest and Mortimer denote an older character.
6. Give your characters individual traits that set them apart from the other characters in the story. One way to do this is by giving them a personal quirk, something only that particular character does or has.

Tips & Warnings

• There's no right or wrong process for formulating good characters. The important thing to keep in mind is that your characters have to be realistic to readers so they will care enough about them to read your story.

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