Writing believable characters can be difficult, but it is important.

Characterization and character development in writing aren’t easy. It requires you to imagine a character from the day they were born to the day they die. This sounds like a lot to think about, but to be able to create a believable character, you have to know everything about them so that when you put them into action, you know how they will respond to the situation: You know what they will say; you know what they will do next.

It is important to think about how your character speaks. Do they ramble, or do they speak in succinct sentences? What your character doesn’t say is just as important as what they do. If someone disagrees with something, do they respond, or do they hold back? This speaks to their character and your reader will get some insight into who this person is.

How to create believable characters:

  • Do preliminary character sketches.
  • Ask your story’s cast of characters questions.
  • Give characters wants and needs (goals and motivations)
  • Give characters occasional flaws and inconsistencies.
  • Steer clear of cultural stereotyping.
  • Allow characters to change over time.

Does your character interact with the world you have created for them? How do they act, interact, speak? Are they passive? Are they active? The way in which your character interacts with the world, situations, and other characters shows the reader who they are as a person.

Make a list of your character. add as much detail as you can so that when you close your eyes, you can see your character as if they are a real person. When you have all this information, you are able to create a believable character for your reader.

Unleash the novel inside you

with compelling characters,

intricate worlds,

and fine-tuned prose.

“Linda has published twenty books. She blogs about the publishing world, posts useful tips on the challenges a writer faces, including marketing and promoting your work, how to build your online platform, how to get reviews and how to self-publish. She has mentored many authors and edited their work.” 

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