Character Development Tool for Novels
This tool is used to enrich character development in novels.
You will encounter a series of questions to help clarify ideas and enhance the character’s image.
Character Name
- What is the character’s name?
- Why does the character have this name? Does it have any origin or historical significance?
- Does the character have any nicknames?
- Why did they receive this nickname?
Character Type and Personality
- What type of character are they?
- Hero
- Sage or Mentor
- Gatekeeper (antagonist or obstacle the hero must overcome)
- Messenger (delivers essential information, moves the plot forward)
- Mysterious figure (creates doubt and suspense)
- Evil force (antagonist, opposite of the hero)
- Trickster (jester or comedic character)
- Other basic categories, such as: Female Lead, Family, Follower, Villain, Extra, etc.
- For more detailed descriptions, refer to the seven character archetypes in The Hero’s Journey.
- What personality type does the character belong to among the nine major personality types?
- Refer to personality models for characters.
- List a few personality traits, strengths, weaknesses, and style.
Gender and Age
- Is the character male or female?
- How old is the character?
Character Relationships
- What is the relationship between the character and the protagonist?
- What relationships does the character have with other important characters?
Physical Appearance
- Are there any distinctive physical features?
- What is the one characteristic that, when seen, immediately makes readers think of this character?
- For example, Sakuragi Hanamichi’s red hair, a birthmark, a physical flaw, etc.
- Is there any backstory related to this feature?
Special Skills
- What is the character particularly good at?
- Do they have any unique abilities?
- Is there any story behind this talent?
Signature Moves and Habits
- What is the character’s signature action or phrase?
- Do they have any good or bad habits?
- For example, a catchphrase, drunken outbursts, talking in their sleep, being a penny-pincher, etc.
Hobbies and Interests
- Does the character have any unique hobbies?
- What have they done because of this hobby? What’s the story behind it?
- How has the character interacted with the protagonist because of this interest?
Background and Origins
- Is the character from a wealthy, privileged background (e.g., “rich and handsome”) or a humble one (“average Joe”)?
- What is their family background and genealogy?
- Are there any inherent conflicts in their background?
- Will their family members interact with the protagonist?
Possessions
- What important items does the character possess?
- How did they obtain these items?
- Is there a story behind these possessions?
Profession and Status
- What is the character’s job or role in the story?
- How does this profession relate to the protagonist? Does it help or hinder the protagonist’s journey?
- What is the current level or status of the character?
- What sacrifices or efforts did the character make to reach this level? What’s the story behind it?
Aspirations & Goals
- What is the character’s greatest ambition or goal at the moment?
- What obstacles are in their way?
- Is this goal something that can be achieved over a lifetime, or is it a short-term objective?
- What price must the character pay to achieve it?
- What actions is the character taking to pursue this goal?
