Tips for Writing Masculine Characters
- They tend to be assertive and direct, getting to the point in speech.
- Avoid ending his sentences with ellipses, which indicates a more passive nature.
- Avoid frequent “uhhhs” and “ummms,” which indicate a passive/uncertain nature.
- They don’t normally use “cute” or diminutive words (kitty, tummy).
- They don’t frequently make dramatic exclamations such as “OHMIGOSH!”
- Men do gossip, but they are less likely to use it as a weapon, instead going for direct confrontations, whether physical or verbal.
- They are often taught and conditioned to appear “strong.” They tend to suppress “soft” feelings such as sadness or sentimentality, and conceal pain.
- They aren’t normally fashion conscience.
- They have a poorer ability to distinguish between colors than women.
- Men are often more amused by slapstick humor.
- Men with any kind of sexual drive appreciate the body of anyone he finds attractive.
- They tend to have fantasies that focus more on power and overcoming rivals.
- Sports are important to most men.
- Men more often think of things in absolute, rigid terms like weight and other measurements.
- Directions from men tend to sound like “turn left on Oak Street after driving a mile down Winchester.” Women are more likely to use landmarks, like “turn left at the orange house.”
- Men generally avoid physical descriptions unless they are directly relevant to the conversation.
- Men describe other guys in terms of what they do.
- Men are not detail oriented. They tend to think big picture.
- Men connect more with physical touch, whereas women connect better emotionally.
Tips for Writing Strong Female Characters
- She knows her own mind and what she wants, but she struggles with the best way to achieve her goal.
- She lives a fulfilling life without a man, but love and marriage might make her life richer.
- She exhibits larger-than-life behaviors that serve as an inspiration or role model to readers. But her “character” must grow throughout the story.
- She cares about her community and finds ways to make a positive difference in her world.
- She demonstrates a healthy self-respect, has the courage of her convictions, and she will walk away from personal or professional relationships that sabotage her greater good.
- She draws upon deep internal reserves (faith, self-love, self-esteem) during times of hardship in order to maintain a positive outlook and to maintain her determination to achieve her goals.
- She dares to challenge outmoded social conventions in her own way.
- She is courageous in the face of physical danger. She would consider the protection of children more important than her own personal safety.
- She accepts responsibility for her decisions.
- She consciously and deliberately tries to control any feelings of jealousy.
- She finds the courage to speak the truth in defense of herself and others.
- She is resourceful and resilient during crises.
- She is a leader at heart, but may struggle to express her leadership skills.
- She has the discipline to rein in her emotions to make rational decisions.
- She is willing to acknowledge her faults.