I have always thought that the best stories have strong characters. Over the years, I’ve learned a lot about how to create interesting characters. Here are some simple tips that can help you make your characters come to life.
I remember the first time I tried to make a character that felt real. I started watching the people around me more closely. Their habits, ways of talking, and little quirks gave me ideas. The more real your characters seem, the more readers will care about them.
When I began making backstories for my characters, it added a lot of depth to my writing. Think about their past—how they grew up, important events in their lives, and their dreams and fears. Even if you don’t use all this in your story, it will help you understand your characters better.
Use Dialogue
Dialogue can show a lot about a character. How they speak, their tone, and their word choices reveal their personality and background. Listen to how people talk and try to capture those unique voices in your writing. This makes each character distinct and real.
Show, Don’t Tell
At first, I made the mistake of telling readers about my characters instead of showing them through actions. Showing is better than telling because it lets readers see for themselves. For example, instead of saying a character is kind, show them doing something kind.
Include Flaws and Strengths
No one is perfect, and neither should your characters be. I once wrote a character who was too perfect, and it made them boring. People connect with characters who have both strengths and weaknesses. This balance makes them more realistic and interesting.
Personal Connection
Using your own experiences can make your characters more genuine. I often put pieces of myself into my characters—my fears, hopes, and experiences. This personal touch helps you write with more empathy and depth.
Unique Perspectives
Giving your characters unique viewpoints makes your story more engaging. I once wrote from the perspective of a character very different from me. Researching and stepping into their shoes made my story richer. Try creating characters with diverse backgrounds and viewpoints to add layers to your story.
Using these simple tips can help you create characters that feel real and keep readers hooked. Remember, character development takes time and practice. Keep observing, learning, and experimenting, and your characters will grow with you.