My Personal Character Files: The 6 Box Method
This is for my science fiction WIP, so some things may need to be added/modified depending on your genre. I will also include a screenshot of an example at the bottom so y’all can see how I set it up in my Doc.
1. The Quick Ref
I use this as the first page of my “Character FIles” Doc.
I put all my important characters in a list, then add their height, age, and the page their complete file can be found on. This is helpful when I need to know if a character would have to crane their neck upward to look another character in the eyes. Comes up more than I’d have guessed.
2. The Individual Profile: 6 Box Method
I add and subtract stuff based on how important the character is. Without further ado…
Box One: Reference Photo
This is where I add in any actor, model, drawing, etc that I base the look on. When I don’t need one, sometimes I’ll put in a picture that represents the character’s style.
Box Two: The Introduction
- Full Name
- Nickname(s)
- Age
- Occupation
- Current home
- Situation How do they enter this story?
- Motivation What do they want?
- Favorite quote/saying
- Biggest strength
- Biggest issue
- Strongest trait
Box Three: Behavior
- Personality
- Habits
- Ambition/Short and Long Term Goals
- Greatest fear(s)
- Phobias
- Biggest secret(s)
- Social skills
- Interior talents
Box Four: Background
- Home moon/planet Apophis
- Important history
- Family
- Friends, Enemies, Acquaintances, and Colleagues
- Finances
- Education
- Phys. Health/Mental Health
- Religion
- Romantic/sexual preference
- Interests/Hobbies
Box Five: Appearance & Physicality
- Height
- Body type
- Skin tone/Ethnicity/Species
- Facial description
- Prominent/distinguishing features
- Dress
- Mannerisms
- Physical talents
Box Six: Speech
- Normal tone
- Language & accent
- Favorite phrases
3. The Example
Rey from The Force Awakens.
Boxes 1 and 2
Boxes 3 and 4
Boxes 5 and 6
Best of luck on your writing journey!
FU C K me bro I literally have been searching my ass off for the last 4 days trying to find this exact post and I already reblogged it??