SUPPORTING CHARACTER OVERVIEW

Secondary characters may not be driving the plot of a story, but they do play a role in directing where it goes. They need to appear on the page as multidimensional individuals with their own voice, goals, and agenda. The questions below have helped me create characters that feel like my own friends.

Name/Nicknames     

Physical Description
Physical traits, likes/dislikes, strengths, weaknesses, etc.

Defining Characteristic
What is their most essential quality? Example: Courage, loyalty, tenacity, etc.

Heroic Quality
What characteristic makes this character?

Unique Traits
What are their quirks, habits, tics, etc.

What They Value Most
This can be a quality in themselves or others, or more general values like family, friendship, loyalty, material success, etc.

Principle They Live By
What is their motto? For example, someone who values material success might live by the motto the end justifies the means.

External Relationship with Hero
I.e. Parent, friend, partner, etc.

Internal Relationship with Hero
How does this character contribute to the hero’s journey? Are they the voice of reason? Do they challenge the hero to take risks/follow their heart? AND how do they change as a result of their relationship with the hero?

Character’s Goal
What does this character want most? I.e. a love interest would want to get together with the hero. A best friend might want to have more independence.

Character’s Agenda
How does the character plan to achieve their goal? 

Other Notes