Aleigha Israel asked Kristen Heitzmann:

People have told me that I need to get to know my characters like the back of my hand. I need to talk like them, think like them, act like them. They also recommend taking the Briggs personality test for each of the characters. Do you think all this is necessary? Thank you!

Kristen Heitzmann Sorry I just saw this question. I think using Myers Briggs or anything like it creates cardboard characters. I can always tell when an author has done it because the character now fits a mold. For me the best way to create fresh characters is to let them react to each scene as it unfolds. I get to know them as the reader does, no preconceived traits. I don't talk, think, or act like them, but I totally hear them, see them, and feel them.

flag