How to Write Stories People Will Love

Question 20: Staying in character

DannyPhantomPhandom asks: You have already written about how to develop characters, but how do you make sure they don't do something that seems out of character for them without solid validation? Experienced writers will know when their characters are behaving the way they're supposed to, but for those starting out, this seems to be a major problem. Particularly in the fanfiction world where I make my presence known.

Believe it or not, this is a problem that even experienced writers encounter sometimes. We have an idea in our heads about how we want a certain scene to play out, so we write that out. And when we read it over, it seems good because it matches what we envisioned. But then a reader might point out that the character in question wouldn't say or do that. And it's not until it's pointed out to us that we realize it!

This is one of those things that's easy to miss when we don't employ beta readers or critique partners. We're too close to the project to be objective. That said, here are a few tips to help your characters stay true to themselves while you write:

1. Know Their Personalities

An introverted math wiz wouldn't raise their hand in English class to answer a question. Wouldn't ask a love interest out on a date without extensive anxiety.  An amiable surfer wouldn't get angry about being given a turkey sandwich instead of peanut butter and jelly. A high strung gymnast wouldn't be relaxed before an event.

A character without personality is two-dimensional and forgettable. So try to make your characters feel like real people, at least in your head. Get to know them well enough so you can predict their behavior, just as you would a friend.

2. Get Into Character

Successful actors understand who their character is, and get into the role by assuming the personality of the character. They try to see the world through the eyes of that person. They try to be that person. Writers can do the same thing. We can attempt to shift our mindset to that of the character, and try to think like they do.

3. Stay In Character

Your characters need to make decisions based on what someone with that personality would do. Every time they do or say something, ask yourself, would they really do this? Or would they really say it like that?

4. Choose Characters Similar To Yourself

It's much easier to write what you know, so if you're just starting out, try writing a character that is similar in personality to yourself. It's much easier to stay in character, because you know the personality better than anyone else!

NOTE: There will not be a post next week as I will be on vacation and away from a computer. Wheeee!