Character-Arc

Your character walks into the story chasing the wrong thing. They’re convinced that if they just get the promotion, win the competition, or reach the destination, everything will be fixed. They’re pursuing their Want with laser focus. And the entire story is about why they’re wrong. Because what they Want is not what they Need—and that gap is where character transformation lives. The Want vs Need Framework This is one of the most powerful tools in character development: ...

Every compelling character is haunted by a belief that isn’t true. Not a minor misconception. Not a small error in judgment. A fundamental lie about themselves or the world that shapes every decision they make—until the story forces them to confront it. This lie is the engine of character transformation. And understanding how to craft it separates functional characters from unforgettable ones. What Is the Character’s Lie? The Lie is a false belief your character holds about themselves, others, or how the world works. It’s: ...