A question that many writers ask. Well, for one, it’s not that difficult. Once you know a trick or two. Don’t worry if you don’t get it right away. I know for one, I still have problems with it.
Here are a few key elements to a great character:
1. They have to have depth.
Characters can’t be superficial. For example, you can’t make one of your characters hate someone else, and leave it at that. You’ve got to elaborate. And show it, make the readers feel the hate. There has to be an explanation.
For example, in one of my stories, my main character thinks love is stupid. Why? Well, I can’t expose here, but as the story progresses there will be a valid explanation. Maybe she was hurt by love before, maybe her parents divorced when she was young, maybe… and the list goes on.
2. Make them realistic.
The more the readers are able to relate to them, the better. No one is going to wake up after partying hard and barfing a several times, and look perfect. You know what I mean?
3. Don’t give all the characteristics at once.
We’ve all read stories, where the author gives all the characteristics of the character in just one paragraph or two. They just dump all the character’s physical characteristics, likes and dislikes, style, in a paragraph or two.
There are problems with this method. First of all, it’s not professional (though, who am I to say this). Second of all, who’s going to remember all of that? Try and spread it all out through your first few chapters. It’s better that way. The reader will pick up these things while they’re reading and retain it better.
4. Give your character a perk.
Make your character different. Not all characters are the same (obviously). But try to make your character differ from the norm. It’s hard, I know. Most characters are already made. But give your character a few characteristics that are different. Maybe your character loves math, but isn’t a geek. I can’t think of a good example right now, my apologies.
5. Your characters, are you.
Our characters, they are our creation. Where do we get these ideas for them? Well, we get them from ourselves. How do you know what jealously feels like? Anger? Love? Hate? You get it from your experiences.
So, what I’m trying to say is: the answer is in you. All you really have to do, is take your own personality, twist it a bit here and there, and there you go. You’ve got yourself a character.
It takes a while to develop great characters, but no worries. With time, you’ll get the hang of it. Oh, and don’t ever give up. That’s the worst thing a writer could do. Every time you write, you’re improving. Well, these are my tips. I hope you find them helpful!
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Did you find this helpful? Do you want me to make more of these? On plots, etc.. Let me know below! I'll do my best. :) And please vote?... Haha, I'll be more willing to make another guide if I see a lot of people like it.
