Overview: For this assignment, due in Module Two, having reviewed the resources relating to effective character development in a work of fiction, you will
submit a 1 to 2 page character sketch of the central character you plan to use in your short story draft.
Prompt: First, write the name of your central character at the top of a blank Word document. Then, write these four categories below: 1) Physical Description; 2)
Personality; 3) Family History; and 4) Personal Conflicts. Once the categories have been listed, write as many attributes as you can about your story’s main
character.
Remember to be as detailed as possible in your character sketch. Avoid generalizations (e.g., “he’s 6 foot 3 inches” or “she’s pretty”). Instead, provide your
instructor with enough information so that he or she can clearly visualize the character physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Next, create and answer specific questions to help you fully develop the character. For example, what kind of shirt does he/she wear on a first date? Are there
certain words or phrases the character might say in particular situations? What nervous tics does she have that she tries to hide (but everyone sees anyway)?
When did he first pick up his hobby, and why did he quit it? When was she picked in gym class? For additional character sketch questions that you can use to help
you develop and describe your character, review this Character Questionnaire at the Gotham Writers website.
When you are finished listing your character’s attributes, pick one attribute and think of ways in which it can be used in the context of your story. For example, if
the character is missing his left eye because of a hiking accident, how will this affect the outcome of your story? Remember, “Character is the heart of fiction.”
Write at least two fully developed paragraphs explaining the unique qualities of this attribute and show how it can help develop and drive your story.
Specifically, the following critical elements must be addressed:
 Provide a detailed description of the central character that includes a description of the character’s physical, mental, and emotional make-up and other
attributes (of personality, family history, and personal conflicts).
 Create and answer 3 to 5 specific character sketch questions in order to fully develop your central character.
 Describe how one attribute exhibited by your central character will be used in the context of your story. Be sure to write at least two fully developed
paragraphs explaining the unique qualities of this attribute and discuss how it can help develop and drive your story.
Guidelines for Submission: Your character sketch should be 1 to 2 pages, double-spaced, with one-inch margins and using 12-point Times New Roman font