An easy way to complicate a character is to give her conflicting values.
How do we accomplish this?
Think in terms of opposites.
If your character prides herself on her honesty, put her in a situation where she is forced to lie for the greater good (or even self-preservation).
If she's something of a slacker, give her an interest or hobby that she is passionate about. For instance, maybe she couldn't care less that she's failing biology, but she's desperate to get the hem just right on the homecoming dress she designed.
Or perhaps she's clever--she always has the answers. Put her in a situation where her intelligence or quick-wittedness won't help her at all (and may even hinder her).
Your Assignment
1. Brainstorm a list of key values or traits your character possesses, and then, beside each, write its opposite. For example:
Fear ---> Bravery
Candor --> Speechlessness
Uncaring --> Compassionate
Humility --> Arrogance
Tolerance --> Narrow-mindedness
2. Think of a way you can weave the opposing value into your story. (Bonus points if you can pinpoint which characters bring out the best and worst in her.)
In Cross My Heart, Jaden, for instance, would be classified as tolerant and compassionate, but Parker seems to bring out the worst in her, leaving her narrow-minded and arrogant during their first encounters.
So . . . if your characters seem flat and uninteresting, highlighting places where they act in opposition to their core values will quickly add some depth to your story.
Be Brilliant!
~Katie~
