Character development questions
There are LOTS of questionnaires available for writers looking to develop their characters, but most of them miss the mark when it comes to finding details that move the story forward. I've written 8 books, but I think it's my 30+ years as a working actor that gives me unique insight into character development.
This VIDEO explains more (and was originally recorded for my Creating Characters Course).
What's wrong with questionnaires?
It never really mattered that I was good at stage makeup until the day my sister-in-law needed to cover a tan line for her backless wedding gown. In that moment, as she pictured her backless photos featuring a horizontal strap mark, my ability to layer and blend base and eyeshadow became the skill that saved the photos.
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If you'd asked me to fill out a questionnaire about my skills, I wouldn't have mentioned makeup application. It didn't seem like an important detail. Until it was the thing that could help someone feel excited to walk down the aisle. I'm good at stage makeup because of my years as a runway model. If you'd asked me to fill out a questionnaire about my skills, I wouldn't have mentioned modeling. Again, it didn't seem like an important detail – until it became part of the story.
This VIDEO explains the difference between character questions that take time to answer, but don't tell us much about the character or their journey – and the questions that can create depth and spark story moments.
the problem with questionnaires
The 2 questions that turn details into story moments
We don't answer questions about our characters just to get to know them better. We answer questions about our characters to create depth and story.
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These 2 questions can turn any detail into a story moment and/or character development.
•Why that way?
•How do they feel about it?
The 2 questions that turn details into story moments
If you're already a paid subscriber, please enjoy the downloadable PDF of questions for character development including Demographic questions, Story questions and additional Development questions.
Ask me!
I invite you to send me your questions. I’ll be selecting some of these questions for future newsletter topics.
Thanks for reading! I hope this inspired you to dare to live your calling.
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