Compelling characters

In general, it’s wise to describe your character when they first enter your story. (There are exceptions, of course, and all rules here can be broken. )

You want your reader to be able to picture your character as early as possible. Just like grounding the reader with your setting, showing some detail for your character allows your reader to vividly picture your story.

Don’t go overboard. Character description is like backstory. Sprinkle in just enough and let your reader fill in the rest. If your antagonist has the word “HATE” tattooed on his knuckles, you don’t have to tell us he walks around with a menacing scowl. Give your reader credit. If they’re reading your stuff, they’re likely smart people.

Readers enjoy figuring things out on their own, so give them the opportunity. Come back for more on creating compelling characters.