The Only Question You Need to ACTUALLY Make Your Fictional Characters Feel Real! 👇🏽
- Chelsea ✨
- Apr 6
- 2 min read
Professional UK book editor explains the ONE question writers should ask when developing their characters.
So many character lists & question sheets exist, but not all of them actually help you develop your characters.
For example, one of the main characters in the fantasy I'm writing is self-destructive, reckless, and irritable, but me just listing those traits doesn't develop her personality.
So once you have your list of personality traits, ask this number 1 question:
"How?"
Related Post: How to Create a Memorable Side Character in 4 Easy Steps
For example: How is my character self-destructive? How does the reader know she's irritable? How can I show that she's reckless?
I've found ways to SHOW her character traits throughout the story without simply just TELLING the reader that she's XYZ...
... so then I've SHOWN how her personality helps or hinders the events of the story, how it affects other characters, and develops as the plot progresses.
As an example, my character is a recovering alcoholic, hence self-destructive, reckless and irritable, so part of the story is her journey to sobriety while trying to save a fantasy world.
So, when you're writing about your characters' personality traits, remember to ask: How?
If you're unsure whether or not your characters feel realistic enough, I can help you! 😊
My developmental editing service offers feedback on your characters, plot, story structure, voice, dialogue, and POV. Or equally, my Writer's Package offers a developmental editing service paired with an editorial assessment that details the specific strengths and weaknesses of your manuscript.
Fill out my contact form here if you'd like to get in touch for more info! 😃
ABOUT CHELSEA
Hey! I'm Chelsea and I'm a professional book editor at Stand Corrected Editing, my editorial business in the UK. If you would like me to edit your manuscript, please get in touch!
With my book editing &proofreading services, I hope to spread my knowledge and expertise on how to make your novel a success, and be a mentor to others who long to pursue a career as an author!
