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theliterarysnob:

that70srpc:

I find that, when writing bios, it’s really helpful to look at a list or a chart like the one above. Picking two or three traits from each chart and building a character based around them will give you a really interesting bio, because they will serve as a reminder that characters need depth and dimension.

Independent and clever.

VS.

Independent, clever, pretentious, and stubborn.

The first combination doesn’t come with any flaws, whereas the second will provide a more dynamic character.

This advice reminds me of playing The Sims (yup I’m that much of a nerd). I once was advised that when choosing personality traits for your sims always make sure at least 1 out of 5 of the traits is something negative or undesirable. It’ll make your sim a lot more interesting and realistic.

The same is true for the characters in your story. There’s a reason why the term mary-sue is used with so much disdain.

(via sleepwalkerindreamersclothing)