If you want to develop a living, breathing, multi-faceted character, it is important to know way more about the character than you will ever use in the story. Remember that your characters will keep the story going and will give the readers someone to resonate with; someone with whom they can connect.

Here are some tips for developing character:

• Give your character details. Imagining and giving various details to your character will help you get to know your character. However, your readers don’t need to know all the details. All they need to understand are appearance, personality, speech, and how your character thinks.

• When giving your character personality, don’t over do it. Traits are important, but what is more important are their impact on your character. Don’t use the personality of a person to give deeper insight. Do that through behavior.

• Don’t give away your character all at once. Allow the information about your character to be released as times goes. If you give your reader too much info at once, they have nothing to look forward to.

• Do your homework and learn all you can about the environment of your character. Find out about the historical period, culture, physical setting, etc. This can bring a greater realism to your character and your story’s plot.

• Watch what others do. By watching other people’s quirks, personalities, and actions. Don’t become a peeping Tom but do keep your eyes open for people’s behavior, speech, and possible conflicts that can add to your fictional character’s background.

Developing your character can be as hard or as easy as you make it. By doing your homework, and taking the time to get to know your character well, you can create a character that will not be soon forgotten. Don’t make it hard on yourself by creating a character that does not fit your plot. That only spells trouble for you and you risk losing valuable readers. Do it right and watch your characters pull in the readers.