The Biggest Character Development Mistake
Character development is an essential part of any story, and it’s important to get it right. Unfortunately, many new writers make the same mistake when it comes to introducing their main character: they introduce them too late. This can be a costly mistake, as it can make it difficult for readers to connect with the character and the story. Here are some tips to help you avoid this mistake and create compelling characters.
Introduce Your Main Character Early
As a rule, your main character should be the first person on stage. Introducing them early will give readers a chance to associate their name with how they look and act. This will help readers to form a connection with the character and become invested in the story.
Give Your Character a Unique Name
Naming your character can be almost as stressful as naming a newborn. You want to choose a name that is unique and memorable, but not so strange that it’s difficult to pronounce. Think about the character’s personality and background when choosing a name, as this can help you to find the perfect fit.
Give Your Character a Backstory
Giving your character a backstory will help to make them more believable and relatable. Consider their upbringing, their family, their experiences, and any other details that will help to shape their personality. This will help readers to understand the character’s motivations and actions.
Make Your Character Flawed
Nobody is perfect, and neither should your characters. Giving your character flaws will make them more interesting and relatable. This could be anything from a fear of heights to a tendency to procrastinate.
Show Your Character Growing and Changing
Your character should grow and change throughout the story. This could be anything from learning a new skill to overcoming a fear. Showing your character’s growth will help readers to become more invested in the story and will make the character more believable.
Final Thoughts
Introducing your main character too late is a common mistake that new writers make. By introducing your character early and giving them a unique name, backstory, flaws, and a chance to grow and change, you can create a compelling character that readers will be able to connect with.
