10 Questions to ask your characters
What is a story without characters? They are what drives any narrative. As readers, and humans, we connect with characters because we gravitate toward transformation, good or bad. We subconsciously root for the character, whether they turn out to be a hero or anti-hero, and want to see if they figure out their dilemma or succumb to it. It scratches that itch within our soul.
Figuring out your characters' weaknesses and faults plays a big part in plot development. You don’t want to write a perfect character where everything amazing happens to them. Last year, I read suspense romance where the FMC literally hit the jackpot (and complains about it) at the start of the book. I finished the book feeling pretty unsatisfied. There was no character development at all. Moral of the story, watch out for Mary/Gary Sues! A perfect character equals a flat story. Don’t be afraid to create characters borne from chaos!
Taking the time to really learn who your characters are not only sets the stage for the character’s personal growth and emotional journey, it also sets you up with a character style sheet! Consistency is key and having a reference sheet of who they are as a character, their mannerisms and habits, prevents any sudden and out-of-character moments.
10 Questions
What does their perfect day look like?
What is their greatest fear?
What is their greatest hopes/wishes?
What is their current, biggest priority?
What do they like to do on the weekends?
How would they respond if they got caught in the rain?
Do they like watching movies alone or with friends?
What is something they never leave the house without?
If they could change one thing about themselves, what would it be?
Who do they feel the most comfortable around?
I hope you found these questions helpful. 😊 Feel free to share down in the comments below and inspire fun and messy characters!
