forum How to handle more than one character in a scene

Started September 07, 2022 by @FictionWriter09 group

tune

I was wondering if anyone has advice for writing a scene/chapter with more than one character. I struggle with trying to manage different characters in a chapter without changing point of view.

I will say this: managing multiple characters becomes much easier if you write in 3rd person. But, no matter what POV you choose, here are some general tips:

• Every time a character becomes relevant in a scene or chapter for the first time (entering, speaking, etc.) I like to do a little check-in. Keep it brief, with 1 or 2 descriptions of them, such as what they’re wearing or how their face looks.
• Don’t tell us how each one is feeling, show us. For example, if 2 characters don’t like something that is happening, you can say “Character A’s eyebrows furrowed. Meanwhile, Character B rolled their eyes.”
• Don’t feel like you have to update us on every single character every time something happens. It’s okay to not mention characters for a couple paragraphs if they’re not relevant to whatever is going on, or if they’re merely observers.
• At the top of each scene/chapter before you start writing, write down each characters’ goals in the scene. This will inform their actions, what they say, etc. Plus, it keeps your writing tight and focused.

Hope these help!