How to build a character board for your ebook

One of the most important aspects of writing a compelling story is creating characters that are believable, relatable, and memorable. But how do you develop different kinds of characters, and how can you make sure you don’t make mistakes when writing about them? One useful tool for keeping track of your characters is to create a character board with pictures and details.

Developing Different Kinds of Characters

To create a diverse cast of characters, authors can draw from a variety of sources, such as real-life people, other works of fiction, and their own imagination. When creating characters, authors should consider their personality traits, background, motivations, and relationships with other characters.

For example, a protagonist might be brave, resourceful, and loyal, while a villain might be cunning, selfish, and ruthless. Supporting characters might have distinct personalities and quirks that make them memorable and add depth to the story.

Creating a Character Board

To keep track of their characters and make sure they stay consistent throughout the story, authors can create a character board. This board can be physical or digital and can include pictures and details about each character.

For example, an author might include a headshot of each character, along with their name, age, occupation, and other relevant details. They might also include notes on their personality, backstory, and relationships with other characters.

By referring to the character board as they write, authors can ensure that they don’t accidentally change a character’s appearance or personality. They can also use the board to brainstorm new plot points and character interactions.

Developing different kinds of characters is essential for creating a compelling story. By drawing from a variety of sources and considering each character’s personality, background, motivations, and relationships, authors can create a diverse and memorable cast of characters. And by creating a character board with pictures and details, authors can keep track of their characters and avoid mistakes while writing their story.

Example of a Character Board for a Novel

Here’s an example of a character board for three roles in a story that authors can use to keep track of their characters and avoid mistakes.

By referring to this character board as they write, authors can ensure that they don’t accidentally change a character’s appearance or personality and keep their story consistent. They can also use the board to brainstorm new plot points and character interactions.