Do you create character profiles before you start writing? Do you find it helpful? What sort of information do you include in these profiles?
Do you create character profiles before you start writing? Do you find it helpful? What sort of information do you include in these profiles?
Hi Terri. I usually do a very brief (1 side of A4, if that) set of notes (my character's "CV") for each key character. It details things like height, eye colour, hair colour, age, sex, sexual orientation, distinguishing features, etc. Sometimes it might also include some key points about their back story, their proficiency in magic, their weapon(s) of choice, etc. I can glance back at it if there's anything I am unsure about while writing. If any points come up that I keep on forgetting about the character I will also add them to their "CV". Beyond that, I let the character develop in the story and might make a few additional notes as things go along. I hope that this helps you. Best wishes, Rob.
Hi Terri,
I think asking a lot of questions about your characters before you start writing is important. I know I do it for all of mine as it helps me to get to know them individually before I put pen to paper. I include everything from the very basic name and age information to asking more in depth questions about what they're like as a person.
Jennifer :)
Personally I don't write any profiles. I've tired in the past and found them restrictive so now I let my characters develop themselves from the tiny idea I have about them as I write.