How to Create Vivid Characters for Your Novel or Screenplay
Creating characters for your novel or screenplay can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the writing process. Crafting a character who is believable and relatable to your readers or viewers can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can create vivid characters that will draw your audience in. Here are some tips to help you create memorable characters for your story:
Start with a Character Archetype
When you’re first starting out, it can be helpful to begin with a character archetype. This is a broad type of character, such as a hero, villain, mentor, or sidekick. Knowing the type of character you’re creating can help you narrow down the details you need to fill in and give you a starting point.
Add Specific Characteristics
Once you’ve chosen your character archetype, it’s time to add some specific characteristics. Think about their physical appearance, age, gender, occupation, and any other details that will help you flesh out the character. It can also be helpful to give them a name and a backstory.
Build the Backstory
Your character’s backstory is an important part of creating a vivid character. Think about their family, their upbringing, and any major events that have shaped them. This will help you create a more realistic and believable character.
Give Them Quirks, Faults, and Flaws
No character is perfect, so it’s important to give your character some quirks, faults, and flaws. This will make them more relatable and give them an extra layer of depth.
Give Your Character an Arc
A character arc is the journey your character takes throughout the story. Think about how they will change and grow as the story progresses. This will help you create a more dynamic and interesting character.
Add Visual References
If you’re writing a novel, you can use visual references to help you bring your character to life. Think about what kind of clothes they would wear, what kind of car they would drive, and any other details that will help you create a vivid image of your character.
Organise & Refine
Once you’ve created your character, it’s time to organise and refine the details. Make sure all the information you’ve gathered is consistent and that your character’s actions and dialogue are believable.
Create the Rest of Your Characters
Once you’ve created your main character, it’s time to create the rest of the characters in your story. Use the same steps to create vivid and believable characters that will bring your story to life.
Creating characters for your novel or screenplay can be a fun and rewarding process. By following these steps, you can create vivid characters that will draw your audience in and make your story come alive.
