Click here to download this worksheet (PDF)
Here is 3-page worksheet that will help you create, compound and resolve character conflict in your stories.
It might sound strange that conflict can be either compounded or resolved through the same means, but if you try it you’ll find it’s quite possible!
We like to think that effect follows cause in a nice logical, direct, sequential way, but actions and reactions are almost entirely arbitrary. If living hasn’t taught you that yet, then writing surely will!
P.S. If you enjoy this worksheet, you might find the Make Trouble and Try/Fail Cycle worksheets helpful too!
Character Conflict Questions
Create conflict
- Who or what is opposing your character?
- Why are they at odds?
- Who or what else is involved?
- How does the character react internally?
- How does the character react externally?
- What governs the characters reactions?
- Is the character motivated to resolve the conflict?
- How long does the conflict last?
- How and when should the conflict be resolved?
- How does the character develop through this conflict?
- How do the other (opposing) characters develop through this conflict?
- How does the story develop through this conflict?
Compound or resolve conflict
- What is the conflict?
- Do you need to make it worse or resolve it?
- Brainstorm some ways to compound or resolve it through…
- Conversation
- Questions
- Violence
- Empathy
- Threats
- Requests
- Supplication
- Persuasion
- Complaints
- Honesty
- Apologies
- Dishonesty
- Punishment
- Incentives
- Outside help
- Death
- Advice
- Inattention
- Inaction
- Information
- Orders
- Error
- Haste
- Discovery
- Leadership
- Deflection
- Departure
- Rank
Click here to download this worksheet (PDF)