Falling flat on your characters

A three dimensional character is needed to keep the reader emotionally invested in your comic, however there are a few pitfalls creators might find themselves tripping into, causing their characters to fall flat. Here are three holes you may encounter when constructing a three dimensional character.

Not giving your characters goals
If you want to avoid developing a flat character make sure to give them a goal over the course of the story. If they’re a minor character then there is no need to worry too much. However, if your main character doesn’t know what they want or why they’re in the story you have a major problem. Your character has to have a goal or motivation otherwise, why be there at all? Before you big make sure you're clear about why your characters are there.

Not giving your characters enough layers
Much like people, characters are complex and have more than one archetypal personality traits. Flat characters are often lacking in depth and complexity, rendering them one note. When developing a well rounded character, add more than just a stereotypical character trait. Maybe the character jokes a lot because they feel awkward in social situations/moments of conflict. Complexity not only builds A more realistic character, it also invites plenty of potential for conflict and development.

Give your characters some conflict
People deal with some sort of conflict or problem in their lives, be it big or small. Same goes for characters. It’s in moments of conflict that the personality of your main characters are revealed. When they react to conflict, it highlights who they are at their core. It invites an opportunity for the reader to relate to them be it for good or bad.

How do you avoid creating a flat character? Let us know in the comment section below! And join us on Sunday evening for our Quackchat at 5:30PM(EST)!

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