How to Create a Character Profile That Actually Helps You Write

Part of the series “how to write a book from start to finish”

By J.E. Nickerson | Wise Thinkers Help Desk 

If you’ve ever watched the Mission Impossible series or movies, you know how the main character carefully selects his team — each person comes with a detailed dossier outlining their strengths and skills.

When you create a character profile, think of it as your character’s personal dossier. This tool will help you understand your characters deeply and write them more realistically.

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Why Creating a Character Profile Matters

Writing your next book might sometimes feel like a mission impossible—like a plot that could blow up in your face. But don’t worry. There are ways to make writing more manageable and even enjoyable.

Getting to know your characters on a personal level—their likes, interests, hobbies, background, and how they think—helps you build believable, compelling characters that readers connect with.

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How to Get to Know Your Characters

While your audience meets your characters for the first time, you, the author, have the unique advantage of already knowing a lot about them.

When crafting your characters, think of everything they might be interested in. Imagine them as real people with rich lives and stories to tell.

Developing this connection leads to more realistic characters who feel alive on the page.

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My Experience: Building Characters in the Eddie and Freddy Series

When I began writing the Eddie and Freddy’s Adventures book series for kids, I focused deeply on who Eddie was as a character. As I wrote down his qualities, I realized he was central to every story.

I carefully incorporated details about Eddie’s life and interests into each book’s plot. Over time, readers grew familiar with how Eddie thought and acted in different situations.

The joys and challenges he experienced reflected the layers of character traits I developed throughout the series.

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You Don’t Have to Know Everything All at Once

Character development is a progressive journey. You don’t need to know everything about your characters at the start—just like you don’t get to know real people all at once.

Characters are complex, with many layers waiting to be discovered as your story unfolds.

When I start a new Eddie and Freddy adventure, I consider what I already know about the characters and what new traits or challenges I can explore during the story.

This approach adds depth and richness to your characters.

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Keeping Your Character Profiles Organized

As you build your characters, it’s essential to keep your notes organized for easy reference.

One of the best ways to stay organized is by using a note-taking app. For me, the Notes app on my Apple devices works perfectly because I can create folders for each character and sync notes across all my devices.

If you don’t have a built-in notes app, you can download one from your device’s app store. When choosing an app, consider:

1. Syncing Capability: Can it sync notes across your phone, tablet, and computer? This helps you access your work wherever you are.

2. Ongoing Support: Is the app regularly updated and maintained? Choose apps with reliable developers to avoid losing your work or important features.

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Embrace the Creative Journey

Remember, creating detailed character profiles is a process. Enjoy it.

Embrace your unique creative journey and watch your writer’s voice grow stronger with every character you develop.

If you’d like to follow Eddie and Freddy’s adventures and learn valuable writing lessons, visit the children’s books section of my website.

Resources

The reason why we write is just as important as the things we say. Learn about why your voice matters and how to find the reason behind your writing. Read How to Find Your “Why” as a Writer and Creator (And Why It Matters)

For More Writing Tips and Inspiration

Explore more guides and helpful articles on writing at the Writers Desk.

💾 Want the companion Character Profile Creation Checklist worksheet? [Download it here]

Continue your journey of creating memorable characters by making a world your readers and characters feel at home in. ⬇️

How to Create a World for Your Characters

Creating a character profile isn’t just about filling out a template—it’s about building a comprehensive dossier that brings your character to life. This worksheet is designed to help you delve deeper into your character’s psyche, ensuring they are multi-dimensional and compelling. By the end, you’ll have a character profile that not only aids in writing but also enhances your storytelling.()

🧠 Character Profile Worksheet

Objective:

To develop a detailed character profile that serves as a practical tool for writing and deepens your understanding of your character.()

1. Basic Information

• Name:
• Age:
• Gender:
• Occupation:
• Physical Description:
  (e.g., height, build, hair color, distinguishing features)

2. Personality Traits

• Core Traits:
  (e.g., introverted, empathetic, cynical)
• Strengths:
  (e.g., problem-solving, loyalty, creativity)
• Weaknesses:
  (e.g., impatience, stubbornness, fear of failure)

3. Background and History

• Family Dynamics:
  (e.g., relationships with parents, siblings, significant others)
• Upbringing:
  (e.g., socioeconomic status, cultural influences, education)
• Key Life Events:
  (e.g., pivotal moments that shaped their worldview)

4. Motivations and Goals

• Primary Motivation:
  (e.g., seeking justice, proving self-worth, finding love)
• Short-Term Goals:
  (e.g., completing a project, reconciling with a friend)
• Long-Term Goals:
  (e.g., career aspirations, personal development)

5. Relationships and Interactions

• Key Relationships:
  (e.g., mentor, rival, love interest)
• Social Behavior:
  (e.g., how they interact in groups, their role in social settings)
• Conflict Style:
  (e.g., confrontational, passive-aggressive, avoids conflict)

6. Internal Conflicts and Growth

• Fears and Insecurities:
  (e.g., fear of rejection, imposter syndrome)
• Personal Challenges:
  (e.g., overcoming addiction, dealing with trauma)
• Potential for Growth:
  (e.g., areas where they can evolve throughout the story)

Reflection:

This character profile is a living document. As your story progresses, revisit and revise it to reflect your character’s development. A well-rounded character profile not only aids in consistent writing but also enriches your narrative by providing depth and authenticity to your characters.()