Compelling characters are can-do characters. They have moments of doubt—everyone does—but they don’t stand there waffling for 20 minutes. They make a decision, good or bad, and they stick with it. Reacher, for instance, runs through a quick paragraph or two of the pros and cons of h...
Finally, one exciting way to use MBTI is to create a dynamic duo with complementary profiles. If you have two characters working together who are too similar, their existence in your script is redundant. As they say in business, if you and your partner always agree, then one partner is ex...
To create compelling and realistic characters, it's important to implicitly and/or explicitly establish some core values. Character description example:Take this simple sentence fromTo Kill a Mockingbird. “Atticus did not fear the anger of the community, for he had faith in the courts to deliver...
Opener:Katniss Everdeen awakens to find that her sister Prim has gone to sleep with their mother, probably because she was having bad dreams about the Hunger Games, in which competitors battle to become the last one standing in an event called “The Day of Reaping.” The Inciting Incident th...
Create a hero who is sympathetic and interesting (see my article, 55 Ways to Create Compelling Characters); Set out the story problem (i.e. the hero’s goal) clearly, and why he must pursue this goal; Reveal the obstacle (an antagonist who’s determined to prevent the hero from achievin...
Compelling captions can create more engagement, which is critical when it comes to Instagram’s algorithm. Strong copy in your caption shapes your brand’s story and personality, which in turn helps your followers realize they need what you’re selling. In short: Instagram captions can help elev...
Thisguideis for all the writers out there who want to create compelling, engaging, relatable characters that readers will adore… or despise. Learn how to invent characters based on actions, motives, and their past. Be confident about grammar ...
Creating an original character for the Marvel Universe requires a deep understanding of the universe, its characters, tone, themes, and its history. Here are the steps to create a character for the Marvel universe: 1. Determine the character's purpose: What function does this character serve in...
Just like each of your characters has an external goal, they also need compelling motivation to make their actions credible. Take some time to make a list of motivations for your main character and the other key players in your cast. The most powerful motivations will be those readers can id...
Engaging headlines are better headlines. Headlines that swap a common word or adjective for a more compelling synonym or narrative can be more effective in standing out. Descriptive adjectives are an excellent way to avoid cliches and infuse your headlines with humor or emotional resonance. ...