How to Write Characters for Fiction Writers

How to write characters that readers will love to root for is no easy feat. After all, characters are the driving force of any story. Whether it’s a novel, script, or comic book, every plot revolves around its characters and their actions. If you want your readers to be invested in your story, then you must have compelling, believable characters. Here are some tips to learn how to write characters that will draw readers in.

This can include hobbies, interests, quirks, speech patterns, mannerisms and more. Strive for balance so they don’t come off as one-dimensional, boring characters—nor too quirky. That’s not how to write characters that feel realistic. The key is to make sure these traits play into the overall story arc without taking away from it in any way. This is the balancing act for how to write characters.

Write Authentic Dialogue

No two people talk exactly alike; each person has their own unique way of expressing themselves verbally and nonverbally. To ensure realistic dialogue, consider your character’s age, background, education level and even dialect when writing it out. A well-written character should have their own distinct voice that captures who they really are as a person. Additionally, avoid clichés as much as possible; use fresh language instead to keep the reader engaged with the text.

How to Write Characters Through Realistic Conflict

Conflict helps create tension within a scene or plotline by pushing characters to evolve in order to overcome any challenges they face together (or separately). Think about how your character would react to certain situations based on their personality traits and backstory—would they take action? Keep calm? Panic? Make sure these conflicts are realistic enough so that readers care about what happens next—will the protagonist succeed? Will they fail? Story tension comes from conflict creating suspense, which keeps readers turning pages until they find out! You can’t learn how to write characters who feel real without putting them in interesting situations. 

Learning how to write characters who are memorable takes time and thoughtfulness, but with practice comes improvement! Utilize these tips when crafting characters for your next project to ensure that readers become emotionally invested in them—then watch as your story comes alive before your very eyes! With careful attention paid to unique traits, authentic dialogue and meaningful conflict among other things—you can create a cast of captivating characters that will drive any story forward.