11/04/2025
A little writing exercise
If you are having trouble developing your characters, try putting two of them somewhere together, step back, and take notes.
The goal isn’t to control them, but to discover who they become when they interact.
Let’s take it step by step:
Step 1: Create two characters.
Give them names, personalities, quirks, and desires. Even small details can make a big difference in how they interact.
Step 2: Give them a setting.
Choose a place that might bring out tension, humor, or surprise. The setting can help shape their actions.
Step 3: Give them a subject to discuss.
It could be a conflict, a secret, a plan, or something mundane. Anything that will spark conversation and reaction.
Step 4: Let them go and listen.
Allow the conversation to flow naturally. Don’t force dialogue! Let them communicate naturally.
Step 5: Observe what they do and how they react.
Notice body language, pauses, interruptions, and subtext. Characters often reveal themselves in what they don’t say as much as what they do.
Step 6: Write down what happens.
Capture the dialogue, the actions, and the emotions. This is your raw material for developing richer, more believable characters.
You can perform this writing exercise over and over, with the same characters in different settings or different characters in the same settings. The key is to let them do their thing without forcing your agenda on them.
You may find that the characters expand and grow in directions you never anticipated. Maybe Sue doesn’t feel comfortable in large groups, or Mike prefers to be outdoors. It’s possible that Kyle becomes antagonistic around Larry but is pleasant with Charles. Why? Delve into that.
As a side note: You might also interview the character directly. Ask them questions and listen to the answers. Then ask follow-up questions based on their responses.
I’d love to hear how this writing exercise went for you!
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