Creating likeable and memorable characters

Here are some ideas for creating likeable and memorable characters.

1. Show their softer side - have them do something kind.

2. Make them the underdog - people always root for the underdog, so make the odds stacked against them.

3. Put them in big trouble - the more trouble your character is in, the more the audience will be drawn in.

4. Make them good at what they do - even if they are an assassin, let them take pride in it. (maybe even be the best in the business)

5. Give them a dark past - this could tie into their regrets. We've all done things that we regret, having this in a character also makes them easier to identify with.

6. Give them a sense of humor - this not only makes the story easier to read, but makes the characters more believable. They don't have to be a comedian, they just need to not always take themselves so seriously.

7. Give them flaws - real people cannot identify with perfect people. Give them a drinking problem or a fear of heights ... something to overcome.

8. Give them someone to love - it could be a lover or their child, or even their dog. But everyone, no matter how bad they may be, needs someone to love. Yes, this applies even if you're not writing a love story.

9. Let them have something in common with the reader - this could be a nosy neighbor or a boss who's a jerk. Just as long as it's something that a lot of people can identify with.

10. Make them rebels - this goes along with being the underdog, just do it with attitude.

Of course, you don't need to use all of these for every character, but you should use some to make the characters easy to identify with and realistic.