Characters: Fun Ways to Create Them Part II

Last post, we covered a more visual approach. This time, we'll go for a written one.

You know those annoying MySpace or Facebook surveys that people post in their bulletins and notes? You know, the ones that ask things like "If you could be any color of the rainbow, what would you be?" Well, believe it or not, they can actually be useful when creating a character. It's kind of like a character sheet or something only in Myspace Survey form.

To make it easier on you, I will just post some questions for you to answer. The catch? Answer it using your character's voice. Let them speak through you. This is kind of an intermediate character exercise because it assumes you already know what your character looks like and a few of the basics. However, the exercise prompts you to think of more detailed things that you haven't thought about yet.

Again: answer in your character's voice. I cannot stress this enough, because it's the whole point of the exercise.

The Survey

Full name:
Nickname (if applicable):
Gender:
Age:
Birth date:
Hair color:
Hair Style:
Eye Color:
Skin color:
Blood Type:
Body type/build:
Distinguishing features:
Tattoos, piercings, scars:
Favorite TV show:
Favorite Movie:
Favorite Song:
Favorite Musical Artist:
Favorite Food:
Favorite day of the week:
Who are your parents?:
Who are your grandparents?:
Do you have any siblings?:
Any other family members?:
Spouse/partner/casual romantic affair/crush?:
Occupation:
School (present or previous):
Friends:
Enemies:
Pets:
Biggest fear:
Biggest hope:
Worst memory:
Best memory:
Craziest dream:
Where do you see yourself in five years?:
What would you do if your biggest fear happened right now?:
Are you good under pressure?:
Any annoying habits?:
In your own words, why are you important?:
Where were you last night and why were you there?:
Weapon of choice?:
Leader or follower?:
What do you want more than anything in the world at this very second?:
When you look back on your life, what is your biggest regret?

Unlike when on MySpace, your character has to tell the truth. Nothing is too detailed. Nothing is too sacred. Fill it out as in-depth as you possible can. You can even add anecdotes from your characters P.O.V. about past events which further explain their answers. Don't just write one or two word answers. Save it, so you can refer to it later. Also, add any more questions you feel needs to be answered for your specific piece.

Most importantly? Have fun. Let that show through while you're answering the questions. Let your character speak. After all, that might tell you something you need to know.