In fiction writing, characterization is an important element when writing a story. The writer needs to get to know a character better than a living person.

Mar 16, 2011 - Nick Tautimer

An earlier article explained how to use personality traits to create depth for characters. This is the second of four descriptions of the Myers Briggs Personality Profile

Aug 4, 2009 - Jo Lamb

A brief presentation and how-to on the mental aspects of creating characters in fiction.

Sep 9, 2010 - Patrick Stephens

An earlier article explained how to use personality traits to create depth for characters - this is the third of four descriptions of the Myers Briggs Personality Profile

Aug 6, 2009 - Jo Lamb

There are many aspects to a story that or created and changed by the characters' personalities. Here are a number of questions that you need to ask.

Jan 5, 2011 - James Haynes

Character sketches can be created using a variety of methods, including personal observation of others' mannerisms and behaviors.

Jan 15, 2009 - Janie Sullivan

Well-developed characters play an integral role in both character-driven and plot-driven novels.

Feb 22, 2009 - Sara McGrath

The writer needs to know more about their characters than what will be revealed in the novel. The questionnaire within may spark the creative process.

May 25, 2009 - Rachel Shirley

The development of characterization throughout history is fascinating. What is a story if not a tale about the evolution of the human being?

Jan 24, 2011 - Susan Fourtané

Much thought must go into finding just the right name for a fictional character. Naming a character is like naming the new baby.

Apr 9, 2008 - Vickie Britton

Help with giving your characters good names; after all, your readers will be reading those names often enough.

Mar 22, 2012 - Patrick Smith

Short story or novel, if you don't know and truly understand your own characters you are facing an uphill struggle all the way. Work hard on real character development.

Apr 15, 2007 - Karen Lotter

Villainous characters are just as important as heroic protagonists. Writers who can portray superior knowledge of both create dynamic and engaging plots.

Jul 8, 2010 - Altair Roxas

Developing good characters with unique personalities in characters' actions, dialogue, and dialogue tags is important for writing a successful story.

Apr 18, 2012 - Michelle Wright

The boss character archetype is the person who wants to run the show. When writing fiction, this is the character who tells everyone else what to do.

Jul 15, 2009 - Suzanne Pitner

Authors should be aware of the meanings of names of their characters. These naming guidelines will help make the writing more authentic by choosing the best names.

Jan 17, 2010 - Suzanne Pitner

Character names carry meanings and inferences that affect how readers will perceive a fictional person. This article lists several resources for naming characters.

Dec 13, 2009 - Suzanne Pitner

In fiction writing, there's no plot without the players, and believable characters can make or break a story. Using fiction writing prompts really beefs up characters.

Sep 23, 2009 - Kristina Bjoran

In fiction writing, there are three essential ingredients that every writer of note uses. This article explains what they are, and why they are necessary.

Jun 8, 2010 - Shaun Edwards

Each fictional character is unique and they should have their own voice to reflect that. Dialogue shows the reader who the characters in your novel or short story are.

Dec 14, 2009 - Kimberly Kunaniec