KEY CREATIVE WRITING SKILLS

Creating a character
FAQ

These FAQ pages are designed to provide a quick summary of each skill. Use them to do some last minute revision before assessments. They are generated by AI which has been trained on the guide pages on the website.

  1. How many characters should I include in my short story?

    Focus on developing one primary character, or two at most. In a short story, it's more impactful to have a few well-developed characters than several underdeveloped ones.

  2. What are the essential details to establish for my main character?

    Introduce the following core details early on:

    Name: Use a clear name, avoiding vague pronouns or descriptors.

    Gender: Convey naturally through name and pronouns.

    Rough Age: Provide an indication of their age range.

  3. Beyond basic information, how do I develop a well-rounded character?

    Imagine their personality, thoughts, and feelings. Consider:
    - What are their core traits and beliefs?
    - How do they view themselves and others?
    - What experiences have shaped them?

  4. What's the difference between "showing" and "telling" in characterization?

    Telling: Directly stating facts about the character (e.g., "He was a kind man").

    Showing: Revealing personality through actions, words, and thoughts (e.g., "He offered his umbrella to the stranger caught in the rain").

  5. What are some effective ways to "show" my character's personality?

    Dialogue: Use their words to convey voice, mood, and relationships.

    Thoughts and Feelings: Provide insight into their inner world.

    Actions: Demonstrate personality through their behaviour.

    Reactions of Others: Show how other characters perceive them.

  6. How can I make my character's thoughts and feelings feel authentic?

    Go deep: Explore their motivations, fears, and complexities.

    Use implication: Subtly convey thoughts through the narrative voice.

    Make them meaningful: Ensure thoughts reveal something unique about the character.

  7. Can I include details about my character's past?

    Yes, use brief timeshifts to incorporate relevant past actions or experiences. This adds depth without derailing the main plot.

  8. Should I describe my character's physical appearance in detail?

    Avoid lengthy physical descriptions. If necessary, weave in small details gradually, focusing on how those details matter to the character or story.