Writing Resource: Character Interviews

It’s a new year but we are still writing, developing characters, fixing plot holes. We are writers and that will never change. I’ve seen a lot lately that people have been struggling with character development. The truth is I have too. But I’ve put in a ton of effort into figuring out methods to develop my characters to the next level. One of my favorite ways to get to know my characters better is through character interviews.

You’ve probably heard of them before, but honestly character interviews can be used in all different ways. After a TON of research, I’ve developed my own set of 50 questions to ask any of my characters and it’s available on the Bound to Writing Etsy Shop right now!

Creating a connection is important in making sure that you learn your character as more than a character. They are a real person. By treating them in this way, you are already on the path to developing a more realistic character.

What is a Character Interview?

A mix of simple, complex, and silly questions to get to know a character on a deeper level.

What are the Categories?

Introduction
Tell Me About Yourself
Getting Personal
Hypothetically
Breaking the Fourth Wall
Closing Thoughts

Example Questions From Each Category:

Introduction

What is your full name?

Tell Me About Yourself

Do you get along with others?

Getting Personal

What are you most proud of?

Hypothetically

Suppose you could become any creature, what would you choose and why?

Breaking the Fourth Wall

You just met your creator! What is your first impression of them?

Closing Thoughts

Have you been honest with these questions?

Creating realistic characters can be a challenge. I’ve found that getting into the mind of my characters through these character interviews has improved my connection with them. By asking the characters these questions and allowing them to answer, I’m able to sense their personality in a way that I was unable to do when only writing their story.

I also find that this questionnaire is useful for side characters. Anyone that your reader will be seeing a lot of should have a questionnaire done. This allows your characters to come to life in a way that readers will believe the characters are real people.

So are you interested in getting your hands on this 50 question character interview? Head on over to the Bound to Writing Etsy Shop and grab your downloadable copy.