Do you have any advice for writing characters to be in character for fanfics? I've had some trouble with ooc characters before and I want to know how to avoid it again.
Hello darling, thank you for the question. Keeping characters in character (IC) can be difficult indeed. Here are some tips:
Make a description of their characteristics
Nothing fancy, just a bullet list. I recommend six prominent characteristics that define the character and is basically who they are, and then six less important characteristics. Keep in mind why they act/speak like they do. Things in their past might have shaped them who they are now. You can also write that down in a brief note.
Make a list of other important things
Things like skills, friends, family members, relationships, hobbies, etc.
Keep questioning their actions and behavior
Whenever you feel that your character is doing something out of character (OOC), stop writing, take a step back and ask yourself the question “Is that what they truly would say/do?” If the answer is no, then change it until they act IC again. This might clash with where you want your character to go with the story, and in this case you have to make a decision. But, if your character is IC, and you want to move them to a certain point, the character will find their way no matter what.
Characters grow
Remember that characters grow over time. Their strong characteristics will be something that won’t change too quickly as they define who they are, but the minor characteristics may be changed if the occasion needs it. It’s the same in real life, sometimes you have to give in a little to get somewhere, unless it opposes your believes strongly.
I hope this helps. If anyone has more tips, please, make it known. This is a blog by writers, for writers!
