how to introduce a character in an essay example

Writing a Character Analysis Essay | Step-by-Step Guide

I’m also going to give you a ton of examples.

This post is split into four parts for easy navigation:

• What is a Character Analysis Essay?
• What is the best Format to Use?
• 11 Character Analysis Example Ideas
• Template, Checklist and Outline for Your own Piece

In this post, I’m going to explain to you clearly and in a step-by-step way how to conduct a character analysis.

1. What is a Character Analysis Essay?

Let’s get you started with some really simple details about what a character analysis is:

• A Quick Definition: A character analysis essay zooms-in on a character in a book, movie or even real life. It provides what we sometimes call a ‘sketch’ of a character.
• The Purpose of a Character Analysis: The purpose of a character analysis is to reveal interesting details about the character that might contain a broader moral message about the human condition. For example, Atticus Finch is not just a lawyer in To Kill a Mockingbird. Rather, he provides us with a moral message about the importance of doing what you believe is right even though you know you will likely fail.

2. What is the best Character Analysis Essay Format?

Character analysis essays do not have just one format.

However, let me offer some advice that might act as a character analysis essay outline or ‘checklist’ of possible things you could discuss:

1. Start with the Simple Details.

You can start a character analysis by providing a simple, clear description of who your character is. Look at some basic identity traits such as:

• Race (if relevant)
• Social class (if relevant)
• Protagonist or Antagonist? A protagonist is the character who is our central character in the plot; the antagonist is often the protagonist’s opponent or challenger.
• Major or minor character?

2. What are the character’s distinctive personality features?

Your character might have some really clearly identifiable character traits. It’s best to highlight in your character analysis the exact traits that this character possesses. Some common character traits include:

I recommend you take a moment to write down what you think the top 3 to 5 words are that you’d use to explain your character’s personality traits. These will be important to discuss throughout your character analysis.

Sometimes a character may start out with some personality traits, but change over the course of the text. This is quite common; and one clear example of this is Lady Macbeth she deteriorates from a cutthroat power player to a guilt ridden shell of a person roaming the halls of the castle. This dramatic character change is something that makes her very interesting, and is worthy of discussion!

3. What are the character’s key relationships?

Does your character have a close relationship with a certain person in the storyline?

You might want to discuss the character’s relationships as a part of your character analysis. These relationships may reveal some key personality traits of your character.

For example, in Shakespeare’s play Hamlet, Horatio is the loyal offsider to Hamlet. Through his actions in staying by Hamlet through thick and thin, we learn that he is a deeply loyal character.

Examining the character’s relationships with their friends and foes therefore is very useful for digging deeper into who this character actually is, and what personality traits they have when they are put to the test within the narrative.

4. What are the character’s motivations?

Another thing you might want to examine are the character’s motivations . What do they desire most in the world? Some common motivations for characters in stories are:

• A simple life
• To serve others

This list really could be endless, but I hope the above examples give you a bit of an idea of the sorts of traits to look out for. By mentioning and examining the motivations of the character, we will come closer and closer to learning exactly what moral message this character might be able to tell us.

5. What are the character’s key conflicts?

Stories tend to have a beginning, a complication, and a resolution.

The complication involves conflicts and challenges that need to be overcome. For Edmund in Narnia, it’s cowardice. For Romeo and Juliet, it’s the conflict between love and family loyalty. Here’s some other common conflicts for characters:

• Whether to stay loyal to a friend;
• To overcome obstacles to love;
• To seek a way out of a challenging situation;
• To escape war or poverty;
• To persevere through imprisonment;
• To overcome personal fear

Again, this list is endless.

Knowing the character’s core conflict gets us even closer to knowing the moral that the character is trying to teach us.

For example, in Romeo and Juliet, the challenge of Romeo and Juliet being together despite their families’ objections teaches us something. Personally, I believe it teaches us the importance of letting go of old grudges in order to let love bloom.

This moral lesson was taught to us through conflict: namely, the conflict that Romeo and Juliet were right in the center of.

6. What are the character’s epiphanies?

Sometimes a character has an epiphany. This often happens towards the end of the story and helps the character overcome the challenge or conflict that we discussed in the point above.

Here’s an example of an epiphany:

• In the Lion King, Simba runs away from his tribe to live in exile. After a chance encounter with his childhood friend Nala, he has an epiphany that he has a duty to his tribe. This leads him back home to fight Scar and return freedom to Pride Rock.

Not all characters have an epiphany. But, if they do, I strongly encourage you to write about it in your character analysis.

7. Examine the moral message the character teaches us.

Finally, conclude by examining the moral message behind the character. Nearly every character has something to teach the reader. Authors put a lot of thought into creating complex characters with whom we can relate. We relate to the character and say “wow, they taught me a lesson about something!”

The lesson might be something like:

• Money doesn’t buy happiness;
• Loyalty to family comes above all else;
• Love gives life meaning;
• Honesty is always the best policy

This is the core of your character analysis essay. If you can pick out exactly what moral message the character teaches you, you’ll be well on your way to writing a strong character analysis.

Below I’m going to give you some examples to help you out. I know it can be hard to really get your head around a character, so sometimes the best thing is to look at some samples!

3. Here’s 13 Example Character Analysis Essay Ideas.

Most times when we create a character analysis, we’re exploring the deeper moral stories / aspects of humanity. Here’s some example ideas. I’ve tried to outline in less than a paragraph exactly what your key point will be about each character:

• Atticus Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird: A character who teaches us a lesson about standing up for what’s right, even if you know you’re likely to lose.
• Huckleberry Finn from Huckleberry Finn: A character who reveals our inner desire for freedom from the elements of society that constrain us.
• Dudley from Harry Potter: A character whose personality tells us a cautionary tale of the perils of middle-class narcissism, parents’ desire to wrap their children in cotton wool, and the lack of discipline we perceive in contemporary childhoods.
• Jack from Lord of the Flies: A character who represents the innate desire for power that seems to lurk not too far from the surface of the human condition. When social structures are stripped away, he quickly reverts to violence and superstition to assert control over his peers.
• Lady Macbeth from Macbeth: Lady Macbeth teaches us a valuable lesson about the perils of contravening our own morality. She starts out a cutthroat killer but is increasingly consumed by the guilt of her own actions. While we may be able to escape full punishment from outside forces, it is the inner guilt that might eat us away to our last.
• The Boy who Cried Wolf: The boy who cried wolf is a character whose fatal flaw is his desire for attention and adulation. His repeated attempts at gaining the attention of others leads the townspeople to no longer take him seriously, which causes him harm when he actually needs the villagers to take him seriously to save his life. He teaches us the virtue of honest and humility.
• Nick Carraway from the Great Gatsby: Nick shows us all the inner conflict between the trappings of wealth, glamor and spectacle; and the desire for simplicity, honesty and community. He is drawn by the dazzling world of East Egg, New York, but by the end of the novel sees live in East Egg as shallow and lacking the moral depth of his former life in small town Minnesota.
• Alice from Alice in Wonderland: In many ways, Alice represents the child within all of us. She is a character of goodwill to all and who looks upon the world (or, rather, Wonderland) with awe. Travelling with a cadre of flawed characters, she learns with them the importance of seeking strength from within.
• The Nurse in Romeo and Juliet: Like many Shakespearian characters, the nurse’s role is both as loyal confidante to a central character and comic relief. Shakespeare uses minor characters to regale his crowd and sustain viewer interest between scenes.
• Lucy in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe: Lucy represents a surprising character whose youthfulness and small stature make her an underrated character by all around her. Nonetheless, she possesses within the bravery and loyalty necessary to carry out the quest for Aslan. Lucy represents the goodness in children and, by extension, all of mankind.
• Anne in Anne of Green Gables: Anne occupies the typical literary role of young girls in many classical novels: she represents innocence and wonder, and her contraventions of rules are seen through a prism of childhood innocence. This frames Anne not as a deviant but as a precious soul.
• Simba from The Lion King: Simba’s story follows his struggle with growing up, embracing his destiny and duty to his family, or fleeing towards freedom and a ‘no worries’ lifestyle. Simba flees Pride Rock and goes through an existential crisis with his existentialist friends Timon and Pumba. When he runs into an old childhood friend, he realizes how shallow his new carefree life has become and reflects upon his obligation to his community back home.
• Woody from Toy Story: Woody starts out Andy’s favorite toy, but when Andy gets a new flashier toy, Woody’s status amongst the toys falls apart. Woody’s key character challenge is to learn to be humble and inclusive living within the group. By the end of the movie, Woody realizes his duty to love and serve Andy is more important than his own status within the group.

4. Here’s an Example Template for your own Character Analysis Essay

Feel free to use this brainstorming template to get you started with your character analysis essay. I recommend filling out as many of these key points as you can, but remember sometimes you might have to skip some of these points if they’re not relevant to your character.

Once you’ve brainstormed the ideas in Table 1, follow the character analysis essay outline in Table 2 to stay on track for your character analysis essay. Do remember though that each assignment will be different and you should adjust it based on your teacher’s requirements.

Here’s Table 1, which is a brainstorming template for your character analysis essay:

And here’s Table 2, which is an example character analysis essay outline. This is for a 1500 word character analysis essay. Change the word count according to how long your essay should be:

Read Also: 39 Better Ways to Write ‘In Conclusion’ in an Essay

Character analyses can be really tough. You need to know your character really well. You might even need to re-read (or watch) your book or movie a few times over to get to know the character really well.

I recommend when you re-read or re-watch the text before you write your character analysis, have the checklist I provided above handy and take notes. Then, use the essay outline I provided above to put all of those notes together into a clear and thorough final character analysis essay.

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Dr. Chris Drew is the founder of the Helpful Professor. He holds a PhD in education and has published over 20 articles in scholarly journals. He is the former editor of the Journal of Learning Development in Higher Education. [Image Descriptor: Photo of Chris]

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How to Write a Character Analysis Essay

A character analysis essay is a challenging type of essay students usually write for literature or English courses. In this article, we will explain the definition of character analysis and how to approach it. We will also touch on how to analyze characters and guide you through writing character analysis essays.

Typically, this kind of writing requires students to describe the character in the story's context. This can be fulfilled by analyzing the relationship between the character in question and other personas. Although, sometimes, giving your personal opinion and analysis of a specific character is also appropriate.

Let's explain the specifics of how to do a character analysis by getting straight to defining what is a character analysis. Our term paper writers will have you covered with a thorough guide!

What Is a Character Analysis Essay?

The character analysis definition explains the in-depth personality traits and analyzes characteristics of a certain hero. Mostly, the characters are from literature, but sometimes other art forms, such as cinematography. In a character analysis essay, your main job is to tell the reader who the character is and what role they play in the story. Therefore, despite your personal opinion and preferences, it is really important to use your critical thinking skills and be objective toward the character you are analyzing. A character analysis essay usually involves the character's relationship with others, their behavior, manner of speaking, how they look, and many other characteristics.

Although it's not a section about your job experience or education on a resume, sometimes it is appropriate to give your personal opinion and analysis of a particular character.

What Is the Purpose of a Character Analysis Essay

More than fulfilling a requirement, this type of essay mainly helps the reader understand the character and their world. One of the essential purposes of a character analysis essay is to look at the anatomy of a character in the story and dissect who they are. We must be able to study how the character was shaped and then learn from their life. 

A good example of a character for a character analysis essay is Daisy Buchanan from 'The Great Gatsby.' The essay starts off by explaining who Daisy is and how she relates to the main character, Jay Gatsby. Depending on your audience, you need to decide how much of the plot should be included. If the entire class writes an essay on Daisy Buchanan, it is logical to assume everyone has read the book. Although, if you know for certain that your audience has little to no knowledge of who she is, it is crucial to include as much background information as possible. 

After that, you must explain the character through certain situations involving her and what she said or did. Make sure to explain to the reader why you included certain episodes and how they have showcased the character. Finally, summarize everything by clearly stating the character's purpose and role in the story. 

We also highly recommend reading how to write a hook for an essay .

Still Need Help with Your Character Analysis Essay?

Different types of characters.

To make it clear how a reader learns about a character in the story, you should note that several characters are based on their behaviors, traits, and roles within a story. We have gathered some of them, along with vivid examples from famous literature and cinema pieces:

Types of Characters

• Major : These are the main characters; they run the story. Regularly, there are only one or two major characters. Major characters are usually of two types: the protagonist – the good guy, and the antagonist: the bad guy or the villain. 
• Protagonist (s) (heroes): The main character around whom most of the plot revolves. 

For example, Othello from Shakespeare's play, Frodo from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien, Harry Potter from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, and Elizabeth Bennet from 'Pride and Prejudice' by Jane Austen.

• Antagonist (s): This is the person that is in opposition to the protagonist. This is usually the villain, but it could also be a natural power, set of circumstances, majestic being, etc. 

For example, Darth Vader from the Star Wars series by George Lucas, King Joffrey from Game of Thrones, or the Wicked Queen from 'Snow White and Seven Dwarfs.'

• Minor : These characters help tell the major character's tale by letting them interact and reveal their personalities, situations, and/or stories. They are commonly static (unchanging). The minor characters in The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien would be the whole Fellowship of the ring. In their own way, each member of the Fellowship helps Frodo get the ring to Mordor; without them, the protagonist would not be a protagonist and would not be able to succeed. In the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, minor characters are Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger. They consistently help Harry Potter on his quests against Voldemort, and, like Frodo, he wouldn't have succeeded without them.

On top of being categorized as a protagonist, antagonist, or minor character, a character can also be dynamic, static, or foil.

• Dynamic (changing): Very often, the main character is dynamic.

An example would also be Harry Potter from the book series by J.K. Rowling. Throughout the series, we see Harry Potter noticing his likeness to Voldemort. Nevertheless, Harry resists these traits because, unlike Voldemort, he is a good person and resists any desire to become a dark wizard.

• Static (unchanging): Someone who does not change throughout the story is static.

A good example of a static character is Atticus Finch from “How to Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. His character and views do not change throughout the book. He is firm and steady in his beliefs despite controversial circumstances. 

• Foils : These characters' job is to draw attention to the main character(s) to enhance the protagonist's role.

‍ A great example of a foil charact e r is Dr. Watson from the Sherlock Holmes series by Arthur Conan Doyle.

How to Analyze a Character 

While preparing to analyze your character, make sure to read the story carefully.

• Pay attention to the situations where the character is involved, their dialogues, and their role in the plot.
• Make sure you include information about what your character achieves on a big scale and how they influence other characters.
• Despite the categories above, try thinking outside the box and explore your character from around.
• Avoid general statements and being too basic. Instead, focus on exploring the complexities and details of your character(s).

How to Write a Character Analysis Essay?

To learn how to write a character analysis essay and gather a more profound sense of truly understanding these characters, one must completely immerse themself in the story or literary piece.

• Take note of the setting, climax, and other important academic parts.
• You must be able to feel and see through the characters. Observe how analysis essay writer shaped these characters into life.
• Notice how little or how vast the character identities were described.
• Look at the characters' morals and behaviors and how they have affected situations and other characters throughout the story.
• Finally, observe the characters whom you find interesting. 

Meanwhile, if you need help writing a paper, leave us a message ' write my paper .'

How Do You Start a Character Analysis Essay

When writing a character analysis essay, first, you have to choose a character you'd like to write about. Sometimes a character will be readily assigned to you. It's wise to consider characters who play a dynamic role in the story. This will captivate the reader as there will be much information about these personas.

Read the Story

You might think that if you already have read the book, there is no need to do so again; however, now that you know the character you would like to focus on, reading it again will have plenty of benefits. It will give you an opportunity to be more precise while reading the scenes that relate directly to your character and are important for his/her analysis. While reading the book, pay attention to every tiny detail to make sure you grasp the whole array of your character's traits. 

Consider the following things:

• What specific descriptions does the author provide for each character?

For example, when J.K. Rowling describes Harry Potter for the first time, she describes his clothes as old and oversized, his hair untidy, and his glasses as broken. It might seem just like a simple description, but she expresses compassion and pity for an orphan neglected by his only relatives. 

• What kinds of relationships does your character have with others?

Think about how Harry builds up his friendships with others. First, he and Ron do not like Hermione because she acts like a know-it-all, but when she gets stuck in the dungeons with a horrendous troll, he rushes to save her regardless. 

• How do the actions of the character move the plot forward?

In 'The Philosopher's Stone,' Harry is very observant of any events taking place at school. He analyzes people's actions, which builds up the plot around the stone and its importance for the magical world.

Get help with your character analysis from our experts.

Choose a Dynamic Character

Choosing a dynamic character is a great idea. This does not necessarily have to be the protagonist, but a character that undergoes many changes has grown throughout the story and is not boring and/or static. This gives you a perfect advantage to fully show the character and make your paper entertaining and engaging for the reader. If you choose a character that is not very dynamic, your essay might seem monotonous because your character will not end up doing much and will not be very involved in the story.

While you are reading, it is useful to take notes or highlight/underline any of the critical elements of the story. This will add depth to your character description(s). By providing vivid and specific examples, you connect your reader to the character, and the character comes alive in their eyes. Review your notes and formulate the main idea about your character when you're finished reading with your character in mind.

Make an initial draft while taking note of the character analysis essay outline provided by your instructor. You may follow the recommended character analysis essay format if you have not been provided with a sample.

Choose a Main Idea

While reading the story, make sure you keep track of your notes. It is a good idea to look at them, choose the ones that are the most representative of your character and find patterns. This will be your thesis. Then, you must support this idea with examples and situations involving your character. 

If your character were Jem Finch from 'To Kill a Mockingbird' by Harper Lee, the main idea would be how his personal character is shaped through racial conflicts, social inequalities, and internal struggles between public opinion, his own views, and what is actually right. Essaypro offers you history essay help. Leave us a notice if you need to proofread, edit, or write your essay.

Character Analysis Questions

Now that you have jotted down some main concepts about your character, here is a list of questions that can help you fill in the blanks you might still have:

• Where do the events involving your character take place?
• What are the relationships between your character and other significant characters?
• What is the primary change your character has gone through throughout the story?
• What is your character's background?
• What is your character's occupation?
• What kind of emotions does your character go through?
• What are your character's values?
• What is your character's value?
• Does your character have friends?
• Is there a lesson your character has learned by the end of the story?
• Does the character achieve the goals he/she has set for himself/herself?

Make a Character Analysis Essay Outline

When you're unsure how to write a character synopsis, remember that creating a literary analysis outline is one of the most critical steps. A well-constructed character analysis outline will keep your thoughts and ideas organized.

Character Analysis Essay Introduction:

Make the introduction to your paper brief and meaningful. It should hold together your entire essay and spark your audience's interest. Write a short description of the character in question. Don't forget to include a character analysis thesis statement which should make a case for the character's relevance within the narrative context.

Character Analysis Essay Body:

Subdivide your body paragraphs into different ideas or areas regarding the character. Look at your professor's rubric and ensure you'll be able to tackle all the requirements. You should also be provided with questions to be answered to formulate your analysis better. The body should answer the following questions:

• What is the character's physical appearance, personality, and background?
• What are the conflicts the character experiences, and how did he/she overcome them?
• What can we learn from this character?
• What is the meaning behind the character's actions? What motivates him/her?
• What does the character do? How does he/she treat others? Is he/she fair or unjust?
• What does the character say? What is his/her choice of words? Does he/she have a rich vocabulary?
• How does the character describe themself? How do others describe him/her?
• What words do you associate with the character? Perhaps a word like 'hope,' 'bravery,' or maybe even 'freedom'?

Character Analysis Essay Conclusion:

It's time to master the secrets of how to write character analysis essay conclusions. Your ending should also hold your ideas together and shape a final analysis statement. Mention things about the character's conflicts that we could experience in real life. Additionally, you can write about how a character should've reacted to a certain situation.

Character Analysis Essay Example

Read our blogs ‘Character Analysis of Jem Finch', 'The Great Gatsby Book Through Daisy Buchanan Character,' 'Analysis of Characters in Beowulf,' or simply use these character analysis essay examples to reference your paper. You might also be interested in a synthesis essay example .

Now that you know what is character analysis, it might be time to choose a character to write about. If you find yourself in a situation where you need to type ' do my homework for me ,' you should contact our writers. You also get a free plagiarism report, formatting, and citing when  buying an essay from us!

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Related Articles

How to introduce characters: 6 ways to be memorable

Knowing how to introduce characters so that they stick in readers’ minds is a skill. Here are six techniques to create memorable first impressions:

• Post author By Jordan
• 31 Comments on How to introduce characters: 6 ways to be memorable

6 ways to introduce your characters:

• Use backstory to reveal relevant character history
• Introduce a character through another POV
• Show typical action
• Introduce a character on the cusp of change
• Make characters introduce themselves directly
• Write a memorable, unique character description

Let’s examine each of these character introduction ideas , with examples:

1: Use backstory to reveal relevant character history

Telling a character’s history gives readers a sense of their formative experiences. A person’s past helps us understand their motivations, their psychology.

If you choose this approach, there’s a caveat: avoid info dumps. Keep backstory relevant to your character’s story arc and their present circumstances.

The opening of Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield is a good example.

Example of backstory introduction:  David Copperfield

In Dickens’ autobiography-style story, the narrator introduces himself by telling the reader about the death of his father only six months before his birth:

I was born at Blunderstone, in Suffolk, or ‘there by’, as they say in Scotland. I was a posthumous child. My father’s eyes had closed upon the light of this world six months, when mine opened on it. Charles Dickens,  David Copperfield , p. 4. Full text available here. 

This introduction is effective on two levels:

• Due to the tragic and personal nature of David’s backstory, we empathise with the character
• The introduction is relevant – David proceeds to tell of his mother’s remarriage and how he is sent, at his step-father’s insistence, to live with their housekeeper’s family – a significant, key plot point

Dickens thus keeps David’s backstory relevant to core plot developments, while also reeling the reader in with emotive details of personal history.

2: Introduce a character through another POV

As in life, fictional characters’ reputations sometimes precede them.

This is especially true for villains. Showing other characters talking about a dubious character before they arrive builds suspense .

Example of introducing characters via others’ testimony:  Heart of Darkness

In Joseph Conrad’s novella about the brutalities of colonization in Africa,  Heart of Darkness , Conrad introduces Kurtz (the violent head of an ivory trading-post) in stages.

First, the narrator Marlow hears from a colonial accountant that Kurtz is ill:

There were rumours that a very important station was in jeopardy, and its chief, Mr. Kurtz, was ill. [The accountant] hoped it was not true. Mr. Kurtz was … I felt weary and irritable. Hang Kurtz, I thought. I interrupted him by saying I had heard of Mr. Kurtz on the coast. ‘Ah! So they talk of him down there,’ he murmured to himself. Then he began again, assuring me Mr. Kurtz was the best agent he had, an exceptional man, of the greatest importance to the Company. Joseph Conrad, Heart of Darkness , p. 30

Conrad builds up to Marlow’s first encounter with Kurtz. After this glowing description, Marlow meets a more impartial Russian adventurer who has met Kurtz.

The Russian paints a more sinister picture:

It was curious to see his mingled eagerness and reluctance to speak of Kurtz. The man filled his life, occupied his thoughts, swayed his emotions. ‘What can you expect?’ he burst out; ‘he came to [the locals] with thunder and lightning, you know – and they had never seen anything like it – and very terrible. Heart of Darkness, p. 79.

The traveler tells Marlow about a time Kurtz threatened to shoot him if he didn’t hand over a stash of ivory he had poached. Thus we see a darker image of Kurtz’s character before seeing him in person .

Like Conrad, you can introduce a character through others’ perspectives and build suspense .

3: Show a typical action

Introducing characters with actions is simple and effective. We may learn a character’s passions, hobbies, occupation, or another detail relevant to their story.

Example of action-based introduction:  Mrs Dalloway

Take, for example, our first encounter with Clarissa Dalloway, the title character of Virginia Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway :

Mrs. Dalloway said she would buy the flowers herself. For Lucy had her work cut out for her. The doors would be taken off their hinges; Rumpelmayer’s men were coming. And then, thought Clarissa Dalloway, what a morning – fresh as if issued to children on a beach. Virginia Woolf, Mrs Dalloway , p. 1.

The sense of purpose, the fact Clarissa decides to buy the flowers herself, shows her take-charge nature.

Woolf also shows Clarissa through the perspectives of passersby. Woolf thus combines a typical action for Clarissa (taking pondering walks) with others’ viewpoints (another introduction technique).

For example, Clarissa’s neighbour’s thoughts intrude on the narration:

A charming woman, Scrope Purvis thought her (knowing her as one does know people who live next door to one in Westminster); a touch of the bird about her, of the jay, blue-green, light, vivacious, though she was over fifty, and grown very white since her illness. Woolf,  Mrs Dalloway , pp. 1-2.

Woolf introduces a little backstory (Scrope Purvis’ mention of Clarissa’s illness), incorporating yet another element of introduction (backstory). Yet note how subtly a brief bit of backstory is slipped in .

In the space of two pages, Woolf thus effectively combines several of the ways to write character introductions mentioned in this post.

When you introduce a character, show actions that:

• Illustrate a character’s nature or temperament
• Bring them into contact with others who can flesh out the reader’s impression further

In addition, include clear physical description (by the second page, we know Clarissa has a light, bird-like quality and is over fifty and pale-skinned).

Start profiling your story’s cast

Create detailed character profiles in easy steps so you know who each character is before you introduce them.

4: Introduce a character on the cusp of change

Showing a person on the cusp of change is one of the suspense-building options among how to introduce characters. .

Showing a character in a dilemma , about to make a life-changing decision, propels your story forwards .

Take Zadie Smith’s introduction of the character Archie Jones in her novel White Teeth .

Example of cusp-of-change introduction:  White Teeth

At the start of Zadie Smith’s debut novel, Archie Jones, recently divorced, attempts to kill himself in his car:

Early in the morning, late in the century, Criklewood Broadway. At 06.27 hours on 1 Jannuary 1975, Alfred Archibald Jones was dressed in corduroy and sat in a fume-filled Cavalier Musketeer Estate face down on the steering wheel, hoping the judgement would not be too heavy upon him. Zadie Smith, White Teeth , p. 3.

This strong introduction conveys Archie’s psychological state, his despair and decision to end his life.

Smith introduces dark humour when Mo, a local halal butcher, interrupts Archie because he’s parked in Mo’s delivery loading bay:

‘Mo advanced upon Archie’s car, pulled out the towels that were sealing the gap in the driver’s window, and pushed it down five inches with brute, bullish force. “Do you hear that, mister? We’re not licensed for suicides around here. This place is halal. Kosher, understand?’ Smith, White Teeth , p. 7.

Through this interaction Smith shows a melting pot of characters in her London setting. We are intrigued, wondering why Archie wants to end his life.

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5: Make characters introduce themselves directly

This type of character introduction is particularly common in first person novels where the protagonist is also the narrator.

The narrator Taylor Greer in Barbara Kingsolver’s novel The Bean Trees is one example.

Example of a character introducing themselves:  The Bean Trees

The Bean Trees  opens thus:

I have been afraid of putting air in a tire ever since I saw a tractor tire blow up and throw Newt Hardbine’s father over the top of the Standard Oil sign. I’m not lying. He got stuck up there. About nineteen people congregated during the time it took for Norman Strick to walk up to the Courthouse and blow the whistle for the volunteer fire department. Barbara Kingsolver, The Bean Trees , p. 1.

Kingsolver starts with a strong emotion: Fear.

The character introduction conveys Taylor’s rural background by describing an incident involving a tractor.

Over the course of the novel, we learn more about Taylor’s fears (for example, her fear of falling pregnant like many of the girls back home in rural Kentucky).

Taylor has to confront her fears when she finds and adopts an abandoned baby girl. Fear (and overcoming it) is thus central to the novel.

So it’s fitting that at the start of the novel, Taylor recounts a fear-inducing event back home.

When you introduce characters directly, as first-person narrators, make them:

• Reveal their personalities – in Taylor’s case, she is revealed as fearful, a fear she is forced to confront as the story unfolds
• Believable: Taylor’s speech is natural. The way she adds ‘I’m not lying’ to her tall tale adds personality and an element of self-awareness

6: Write a memorable, unique physical description

When introducing characters, give readers the detail they need to picture them.

In John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men , we get a precise image of two co-travelers, the central characters.

Example of vivid character introduction via description:  Of Mice and Men

Steinbeck introduces the simple, large Lennie and the small, shrewd George with this description:

Both were dressed in denim trousers and in denim coats with brass buttons. Both wore black, shapeless hats and both carried tight blanket rolls slung over their shoulders. The first man was small and quick, dark of face, with restless eyes and sharp, strong features. Every part of him was defined: small, strong hands, slender arms, a thin and bony nose. Behind him walked his opposite, a huge man, shapeless of face, with large, pale eyes, with wide, sloping shoulders; and he walked heavily, dragging his feet a little, the way a bear drags his paws.’ John Steinbeck,  Of Mice and Men , p. 8.

Steinbeck’s detailed description begins with George and Lennie’s clothing .

From here, he describes contrasting features, George’s fineness and chiseled face and Lennie’s ‘shapelessness’.

He also describes both with posture and movement. Lennie drags his feet ‘the way a bear drags his paws’.

Shortly after this description, when they reach a clearing, Lennie ‘flings’ himself down, while George steps ‘nervously’.

The way both characters move matches their temperaments and the preceding physical description.

When introducing a character visually , include:

• Identifying dress
• Physical features (their facial features, body type, etc.)
• Any characteristic movement (e.g. Lennie’s bear-like gait)

Start profiling detailed characters the easy way in Now Novel’s outlining dashboard.

Related Posts:

• Protagonist examples: Creating memorable main characters
• Setting the scene: 6 ways to introduce place in stories
• Development of characters: 6 intriguing ways we change
• Tags character introductions , how to create characters

Jordan is a writer, editor, community manager and product developer. He received his BA Honours in English Literature and his undergraduate in English Literature and Music from the University of Cape Town.

31 replies on “How to introduce characters: 6 ways to be memorable”

This was really helpful! I’m in chapter ten in my latest novel and i’ve switched point of view from the good guys to the bad guys, but I did not know how to introduce them in an interesting and significant way. I’ve never had trouble with that before but I was really stuck. This helped a lot! Thank you!

I’m glad to hear that, Mariam. Best of luck for writing the bad guys’ part.

My book just started, and I am introducing two new characters at once, a grown man; a mercenary bowman, and his young charge, a golden-haired little thing who is working to study some old ruins for her master. I have the scene planned and the setting established, but I find myself not knowing how to introduce these characters. His hair was long and black as pitch, he had a short, well-trimmed beard, an average nose, and deep blue eyes. He wore a hood and heavy black padded cloth under thick leather plates. He is standing by the door of the ruins listening to the cave-like echos from the depths (But I dont want to just SAY these things) any help would be nice.

Here’s one possibility, Scott. You could describe this man with the long hair and blue eyes from his young charge’s perspective, the first time they meet. That way you could slip in some of her initial impressions about his character, beyond physical appearance. Hope that helps!

Great post! Have shared..

Thank you, Joanne! Thanks for reading.

Am always fascinated each morning when I get handy tips like this one. Thanks a lot.

It’s a pleasure, thank you for reading and this generous feedback, Maxwell.

I struggled with this having to introduce 6 characters right at the start, they’re a team and all have important backstory that’s revealed one at a time through the course of the story.

I basically went right into physical descriptions.

That is one approach. The danger of launching right in with extensive physical description is it can start to read like a ‘shopping list’ of attributes (‘she had this, and this, and this, and that’). If it works, great! If it’s a little clunky or the author’s hand is too visible, try introducing some through appearance, others through voice (how they sound – dialogue comes in handy here), others through demeanor (is there a shy one, or a brash one?). Good luck!

Thanks! I may try to fix that part later by having each doing or saying something as they enter.

At least for most of the novel, they are not all around together, or I agree that would be a bit too overwhelming of a main cast (they get split up early on and several are absent for much of the story).

This helped me a lot as well. The issue I had with my own story was that I kept trying to start with a single character or with several at once. I’m using my prologue as a way to “introduce” my main character with a few small personality traits, then using the first chapter as a way to describe him physically.

Hi Ethan, my sincere apologies for the delayed reply, I don’t see notifications for older posts always. I hope your book’s progressed well since you shared this. Thank you for reading!

It’s perfectly fine. I’m currently taking a slight hiatus to try and really break down the details of how I want to start. Decided to start out with a different character, potentially, but that means I gotta work out a new plotline. However, your article here DID help a lot. It’s more of a battle with short-term writers block when trying to start.

Any advice on how to introduce my six characters, if they’re all very important to the plot? Three of them are brothers, and the other three are sisters, so if I choose to introduce one person, I end up having to introduce his brothers ( or sisters ). Is there any other way, or am I doing somthing wrong?

Hi there, I’m sorry for the delay in getting back to you! I don’t always receive comment notifications for some reason. I’m sure you’re further along now, but I don’t see why you couldn’t introduce all the siblings in a shared scene. I’m sure however you’ve approached this it’s effective.

I am currently writing a science fiction novel and have a strong protagonist which has already been introduced. I have written three chapters thus far. My problem is that I need to introduce a new important character who appears much later in the story but has everything to do with the outcome and the fate of the protagonist. Do I introduce her now as a separate character or wait until he( the protagonist) meets her later on. In other words should I keep my story in a more linear style or break it up by introducing her now, but not revealing the future relationship that the two will have?

Hi Mark, sorry for the delay in seeing and responding to your interesting question. You could introduce her in reputation, often characters hear about each other before we actually read scenes focused on the other character’s viewpoint. A non-linear approach also offers fun creative possibilities in terms of narrative structure. I’m sure you’ve found an effective solution! Thanks for reading.

i have a problem in introducing other characters. like how would i describe their personality without using cliches like (winter or ice cold, happy, energetic etc) i want to describe someone who would stick to the reader’s memory and have a unique introduction than others characters. those characters i want to introduce are two brothers, they both have different personality. the eldest is a boy with a few words, his cold, and not ever friendly with anyone. he kinda have this cold-death stare etc. the other is extremely energetic he smiles all the time and he bugs everyone with what they are doing. he is fascinated about everything just like a child. i dont want to give the read all the info at once because that would be confusing and i want to make it memorable. thankyouu.

Thank you for stopping by and sharing this challenge. I would suggest for each brother, focus on crafting a voice and manner corresponding to these personality types you suggested (cold and reserved versus energetic and outgoing). For example, when the cold/held back brother speaks, perhaps he answers in shorter sentences, and asks questions in return less than his brother (is less curious/engaging with others).

Think about how these personalities, in other words, shape everything else about the characters – for example details such as how they dress and look, where they like to spend their time, who they like to spend it with, what their hobbies are. This sort of detail can form an idea of ‘energetic’ or ‘cold’ (in relation to someone’s character) without your ever having to spell out in as many words ‘He was an energetic/cold person’ to the reader.

I hope that makes sense! As an exercise, write a scene where the cold brother is purchasing something at a supermarket that reveals his nature (for example, does he step away when someone stands too close in line, not make eye contact with the person at the counter? And so forth).

yeah i understand, and thank you for the help! it makes a lot of sense now

It’s a pleasure! 🙂

Hi, I’m writing a supernatural novel and I did some research to prepare for it. It was based on what I’ve written when I was in middle school so I wanted to improve it. It’s a series and I was reading clueless before how I should put it so I just wrote them the way I thought was good but now i think they’re too childish. The novel has a wide scope somehow, it consists of different stories in each book- it’s like a series. About four books in total and I’ve decided to rewrite them chronologically…so the first boom would be like the origin thingy and it needs a past/history (setting) and most of the story will take place in the present. I thought I could write a prologue but I’m worried that it won’t be enough to show the back story/history of the protagonist why she is like this in the present so it’s confusing me now how to do it or how to place them together. Plus there are more then three characters that has a big role in he story.

I have not ever sold a book, so I might not be the best advisor, but I’ll offer what I think, and you can ignore it or take it into account or what have you.

I would write it with an overlying plot, but with flashbacks. It doesn’t always work, but as a reader, it’s interesting to have a main character with a mysterious past that gradually grows less and less mysterious as the story progresses. If you don’t want to do that, then a prologue could probably work, or you could do a prequel, but it’s always best to start off with main arc and do the origin story later, speaking in series terms.

I wish you luck on your writing quest.

Thank you. That was my first option and I’m considering that too but I wanted to know if theres any way. Anyway if I read something. I prefer it the way you suggested. I’ll have to write the whole thing first then I’ll see in what way it works best and ask opinions too. Thank you for your suggestion!

Thank you for sharing that. I’d suggest writing an outline for each part of the series (including the prologue), describing in brief summary form what you want each portion of the series arc to cover. Good luck!

I’m thinking this way too. I’m starting to write an outline for each series but I can’t decide yet. I want to keep some things mysterious at first and yet I’m trying to see how I make it that way. The more I analyze the outlines I’ve made i think I’m starting to find the best way to deliver the series. Thank you for your advice! I’ll do my best.

How do I introduce two characters from the Protagonists POV. A girl who falls in love with Protagonist and his friend.

Hi Manoj, thank you for reading our article and your question. There are many ways you could introduce both characters. You could do so through:

• Narration: If your protagonist tells the reader something along the lines of ‘There’s this girl who keeps… [he proceeds to describe actions or words that give the impression she’s fallen in love with him]. Similarly you could introduce the friend through something your narrator says about him. Try to think of something with potential for intrigue, drama, or conflict. For example, if we get the sense the portagonist isn’t interested in the girl in return, then we might wonder how this unreciprocated feeling will resolve
• Action: You could also create a scene where the three of them meet for some reason (for example, is the girl who falls in love with your protagonist a friend or other connection of his other friend? Why does she tag along to meet him?

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How to Write a Character Analysis Essay: Examples & Outline

A character analysis is an examination of the personalities and actions of protagonists and antagonists that make up a story. It discusses their role in the story, evaluates their traits, and looks at their conflicts and experiences. You might need to write this assignment in school or college. Like any other essay, your character analysis should contain an introduction, a conclusion, and a thesis.

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Want to know how to write a character analysis essay? Not sure how to start? We understand. Whichever piece you choose – Lady Macbeth, A Rose for Emily, or something else, – analyzing a character for the first time might be challenging. No worries, we are here to help! In this guide by our custom writing experts, you will find a step-by-step guide, outlining and writing tips, as well as a number of character analysis examples.

• 📔 Character Analysis Definition
• 🧙 Types of Characters
• 📝 Writing Guide
• 🖥️ Formatting Tips

📑 Character Analysis Essay Examples

📔 what is a character analysis essay.

A character analysis essay is an assignment where you evaluate a character’s traits, behaviors, and motivations. It requires critical thinking and attention to detail. Unlike descriptions, analyses focus on a character’s personality and internal drives. It explains how those factors shape the narrated events.

So, what you need to do is to see the characters as if they were real people who feel and act just as we do. Ensure there are no baseless assumptions and interpretations: the ideas you present should be supported by quotes from the text.

Character: Definition (Literature)

How do you define a character? It is a person, a creature, or an animal that makes up the story’s world. A character can be based on a real-life person, or it can be entirely fictional. It is someone who thinks, feels, and acts.

We use the word “character” in many different contexts. For instance, it can denote someone eccentric or worthy of our admiration. In both contexts, the term “character” means a distinctive personality. Similarly, in an analysis, your task is to show what makes a character stand out.

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Characterization: Literary Definition & Examples

Characterization is the process by which a character’s personality is revealed. It presents characters’ traits, feelings, and motives to the reader. For this reason, characterization is closely connected to character analysis. It helps us to understand the characters better throughout the reading process.

Characterization can be direct and indirect .

• Direct characterization is when the narrator directly tells the audience what the personality of a character is.
• In contrast, indirect characterization shows things that hint at a character’s nature.

Here are some examples of direct characterization taken from Patti Smith’s Just Kids :

“But he always suppressed his real feelings, mimicking the stoic nature of his father.”

Here we see a direct description of a character. The author straightforwardly talks about Robert’s feelings. In comparison, look at the description of a woman taken from John Steinbeck’s The Snake :

“He looked around at her again. Her dark eyes seemed veiled with dust. She looked without expression at the cat’s open throat.”

These lines don’t directly reveal anything about the woman, but the reader can understand that she is cold and dangerous. It’s an indirect characterization that focuses on looks and actions to convey the message to the reader.

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🧙 Types of Characters for Your Essay

When it comes to characters, they can be divided into several groups. For example, characters can be:

• Protagonists or antagonists,
• Static or dynamic,
• Flat or round.

These types define how much the characters change through the course of the story and their role in it.

Character Type: Definition

In psychology, a character type is defined by a combination of personality traits that coexist in an individual. Authors incorporate different types of characters into their works to convey the message and make the story more exciting or relatable to the reader.

There are three ways to categorize a character type:

• by archetypes,
• by their role in the narrative,
• by their ability to change throughout the story.

If you are about to write a character analysis essay, being familiar with character archetypes is essential. They have been categorized by a generation of writers, including the Swiss psychologist Carl Jung and the American literary theorist Joseph Campbell. A lot of characters we see in today’s literary works are rooted in them.

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Archetypes include the Trickster, the Ruler, the Lover, the Sage, and others. The Hero is one of the most notable archetypes. Hercules or Achilles can be good examples of heroic protagonists. They are strong and courageous; they meet challenges and save the day by helping others.

Main Character: Definition & Examples

The main character and the protagonist often get mixed up. Most narratives also have the figure of the antagonist , whose actions affect the plot and stimulate change. Let’s have a look at the similarities and differences between these types.

The main character is central in the narrative. We experience the story through their eyes. They don’t necessarily have to be protagonists, though it happens in many cases.

The crucial difference between the main character and the protagonist is that the protagonist goes through changes throughout the story. The main character, however, is there to guide the reader through the experience. Often they help to show a different, darker side of the protagonist.

To understand the difference better, let’s turn to some examples.

What’s a Static Character?

Now that we’ve learned about the main character and the protagonist, we will closely look at other types of character classifications. One of the ways to categorize a character is by their ability to change throughout the story.

A static or simple character is someone who undergoes little or no significant changes. They often exist for comedic purposes. Here are some examples:

Complex Character: Definition & Examples

Complex or dynamic characters are the opposite of static characters. Characters of this type change as the book progresses. They display different qualities, emotions, and motives. They become more complicated and interesting to the reader as the story unfolds.

Check out these examples of dynamic characters:

Other Kinds of Characters

You already know about several ways to define a type of character. Now, let’s go over some other types, starting with flat and round characters.

Similar to dynamic and static ones, round and flat characters represent two different ends of a spectrum. Round characters usually come with an in-depth background. They are traditionally protagonists, antagonists, or those close to them. In contrast, flat characters are two-dimensional, and there is not much depth to them.

For the examples, we will turn to the novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen.

Finally, here are some bonus character types for you:

• Stock characters have a fixed set of traits and are flat. Most of the time, they exist for comical relief.
• Symbolic characters represent a concept or a theme that goes beyond them. They can be round and flat as long as they symbolize a particular notion or phenomena.
• Sidekick is a secondary character who supports the protagonist.
• The love interest is someone with whom the main character is infatuated.
• Foil is someone who’s set in contrast with the protagonist, thus putting more emphasis on the latter’s qualities.

Characterization Essay: Which Character Type to Choose

Before you start writing a paper, it essential to decide on the character you’re going to analyze. There are different types of characters in every story, so you need to choose which one suits your essay topic the best.

Usually, it’s best to choose a dynamic and round character . With static and flat ones, there may not be enough substance for you to analyze. However, some such personalities can be interesting to work with. For instance, a flat character such as Mr. Collins can be symbolic of something. Then, you can talk about how it embodies a specific idea or notion. You can also look at how they affect other characters in the story.

📝 How to Write a Character Analysis Step by Step

Now, we’re going to discuss how to write your paper step-by-step. But first, here are some pre-writing steps for you to consider:

• Choose a character for analysis.
• Take notes while reading;
• Define the type of the character and their role in the story;
• Pay attention to their descriptions and actions.

How to Analyze a Character: Description Examples

Knowing how to organize your work is an essential skill. Certain things need special attention if you are describing a character:

• physical appearance,
• emotional state,
• how the character speaks,
• behavior and personality traits,
• relationships with other characters.

When you analyze a character, try to look at them as if they were a real-life person. You want to know their motive, learn about how they feel, and understand why they think in a certain way. Ask yourself:

• How did the character change throughout the story (if at all)?
• What do other characters say about them? Can their words be trusted?
• Where is the character physically and emotionally? What brought them here?
• What is the character ready to do to achieve their goal?

Now, let’s look at the character of Franklin from the short story Just Before the War with the Eskimos by J.D. Salinger:

Character Profile Template for Writing

When writing your essay, use this character analysis template:

In the following sections, we’ll discuss each step in detail.

Character Analysis Outline: How to Start a Character Analysis

The beginning of your essay is its crucial part. It sets the mood and grabs the reader’s attention. There are many different ways to write a character analysis introduction, but here are the most effective ones:

• Use a quotation. It’s a great way to make a catchy hook. If it relates to the character and reflects their nature, it can also help to set the tone for analysis. In case you are using a quotation from somewhere else, mention the source in parentheses.
• Talk about the book or story. Mention the author, the name of the story, and the genre. Briefly describe the main events that are taking place in the story.
• Introduce the character. State their role in the story (define whether they are a protagonist, an antagonist, etc.) Then, explain whether the character is static or dynamic. Finally, describe them in 2-3 sentences.

The final part of an introduction is a thesis statement.Read on to learn how to write one!

Character Analysis Thesis Statement & Examples

A thesis is the key component of every essay, and character analysis is not an exception. It’s crucial to develop a good and clear thesis statement that includes all the aspects of your paper. For instance, if you plan to write a 4-paragraph body, including 4 points in your thesis.

What should a character analysis thesis include? Well, try to think of any trait that the character possesses that has to do with their downfall or somehow influences the story. Think about how this trait affects the character’s relationship with others or how it contributes to their motive or aspiration.

Take a look at the following examples:

How to Write Character Analysis Paragraphs for the Main Body

The main body of your essay can include as many paragraphs as you need. In this part, you introduce the character and analyze them. We have already talked in this article about what kind of questions should be answered in these paragraphs. The most important points are:

• Describe the character and their role within the story.
• Give the audience an explanation of the character’s motives.
• Show what message the author wanted to convey through this character.

Keep in mind that every paragraph should have a topic sentence that captures its main idea.

Tsukuru Tazaki’s spiritual rebirth also affects his physical appearance.

Character Analysis Conclusion: How to Write

The conclusion part of your essay summarizes all the information you have mentioned and restates the thesis. Here is some advice for your conclusion paragraph:

🖥️ Character Analysis Essay Format

Most college assignments and essays are written according to the APA or MLA format. Both styles have the same formatting, which requires:

• a double-spaced paper with 1-inch margins,
• a page header with page numbers flush right,
• an 11-12-point font.

While writing an essay on characters, pay special attention to quotations. Here are some tips for APA in-text citations:

• When you summarize or paraphrase the information, mention the author’s name and publication date in brackets. Example: According to Collins (1997.)
• When you quote directly from the source, add the number of the page, as well. Example: “There is a view that…” (Collins, 1997, pp. 134-135.)
• If the source includes three or more authors, use the abbreviation “et al.” after the first author’s name. Example: (Collins et al., 1997)

As for MLA format:

• You can write the author’s name in the sentence. Example: As Collins mentions in his essay<…>.
• You can mention the author’s name in the parentheses at the end of the sentence. Example: (Collins, J.K.)
• The last option is to use either footnotes or endnotes.

Below you’ll find a collection of character analysis essay examples and a downloadable sample to inspire you even more.

• The Grandmother in A Good Man Is Hard to Find: Character Analysis
• Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman: Character Analysis
• Jay Gatsby and Nick Carraway: Character Analysis
• Prospero in The Tempest: Character Analysis
• Agamemnon in the Iliad: Character Analysis
• Lord Pococurante in Candide: Character Analysis
• Andromache in the Iliad: Character Analysis
• Character Analysis of the Knight from The Canterbury Tales
• Essay on Soldier’s Home: Analysis of the Characters

Character Analysis Example (Downloadable)

Roald Dahl’s  Matilda  is one of the most famous children’s novels of the 20th century. The protagonist of this tale is Matilda Wormwood, a five and a half-year-old girl with a brilliant and lively mind that distances her from the rest of the family. Matilda’s character is particularly interesting as she has a powerful personality with extraordinary mental abilities, and she manages to overcome all the obstacles that surround her.

Character Analysis Essay Topics

• Character analysis of Abbas from A.D.: New Orleans After the Deluge .
• Jay Gatsby in The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
• Beowulf and Hamlet : similarity and diversity of the characters.
• Personal and social failures of Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller.
• Character analysis of Othello .
• Analyze the characters of Stanley and Blanche from A Streetcar Named Desire .
• The tragedy of Mathilde Loisel from The Necklace by Guy de Maupassant.
• Character analysis of Huck Finn from Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn .
• Moral force of Kate Lipton from Double Helix by Nancy Parker.
• Character analysis of Thorvald and Nora in Henrik Ibsen’s A Doll’s House .
• Discuss the character of king Creon in Antigone .
• Analyze the personality of Lydia from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice .
• Compare Nick Carraway and Tom Buchanan from The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
• Describe the peculiarities of Lord Pococurante in Candide .
• Sarty Snopes in William Faulkner’s Barn Burning : character analysis.
• Analyze the character of Biff Loman in Death of a Salesman.
• Personality of Nora in A Doll House by Henrik Ibsen.
• Examine the main characters of The Yellow Paper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman.
• Personality change of the main character in Edgar Alan Poe’s The Black Cat .
• Analyze the characters of E. Hemingway’s A Clean, Well-Lighted Place .
• Describe the main characters of the novel The Overstory by Richard Powers.
• Controversial personality of Vladek in Maus: A Survivor’s Tale by Art Spiegelman.
• Character analysis of Victor Frankenstein in Frankenstein by Mary Shelley .
• Discuss the character of Creon in Oedipus the King .
• The manipulative character of Iago in Willian Shakespeare’s Othello .
• Analyze the characters of Nil and Kristine in A Doll’s House .
• Eccentricity of Grendel’s character in Beowulf .
• Describe the main characters of Four Summers by Joyce Carol Oates.
• Examine the characters of Harold Krebs and his mother in Ernest Hemingway’s Soldier’s Home .
• Analyze common and different traits of the characters in The Monkey’s Paw .
• Character peculiarities of Rostam and Sohrab in Shahnameh by Ferdowsi Tousi.
• How does the character of Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen differ from the rest of her family?
• The behavior and meaning of the characters in Nicholas Rowe’s The Tragedy of Jane Shore.
• Compare the characters of Victor Frankenstein and the monster in Frankenstein or the Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley.
• Discuss the differences of main characters in Everyday Use by Alice Walker.
• Examine the character of Connie in Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been by Joyce Carol Oates.
• The influence of social pressure on the characters of Chopin’s Desirée’s Baby and Sedaris’ A Modest Proposal .
• Dynamic feminist characters of Delia and Jig in Sweat by Z. Hurston and Hills Like White Elephants by E. Hemingway.
• Analyze the personality traits of Emily in William Faulkner’s A Rose for Emily .
• Examine the characters of The Quiet American by Graham Greene.
• Henry ΙV by William Shakespeare : analysis of main characters.

Now you know everything necessary for writing an excellent character analysis. What character would you like to analyze? Let us know in the comments!

Further reading:

• How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay Step by Step
• Literature Review Outline: Examples, Approaches, & Templates
• Library Research Paper: Example & Writing Guide [2024]
• How to Write a Critique Paper: Tips + Critique Essay Examples
• 435 Literary Analysis Essay Topics and Prompts [2024 Upd]
• How to Write a Literature Review: Actionable Tips & Links

❓ Character Analysis FAQ

A character analysis involves:

1. description of a character; 2. explanation of how they change throughout the story; 3. their role in the narrative; 4. relationships with other characters; 5. what idea the author wanted to convey through the character.

A character analysis creates a description that contains their most important qualities. It provides a new perspective of a character that reveals more about what it’s like to be human. It can also point to a moral or a lesson.

Literary analysis uses the technique of tracing the character development. This technique is usually used to understand the theme of the work better. Through tracing a character’s development, we can learn more about the story’s message and how it’s conveyed.

A summary paragraph in a character study should include answers to the questions “what,” “who,” “where,” and “why.” You should mention who narrates the story, where the story is set, its theme, and the message it conveys.

• Critical Concepts: Character and Characterization: Kansas State University
• Analyzing Novels & Short Stories: Texas A&M University
• Guidelines for Writing a Character Analysis Essay: Tidewater Communite College
• Literary Criticism: Thesis Examples: The University of Texas at Arlington
• Writing a Literary Analysis Paper: Germanna Community College
• Flat and Round Characters: Encyclopedia Britannica
• Literature: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• How to Write a Book Analysis: Kean University
• Elements of Literary Analysis: Alamo Colleges District
• Defining Characterization: Read Write Think
• APA Style: General Format: Purdue University
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Any critique is nothing more than critical analysis, and the word “analysis” does not have a negative meaning. Critical writing relies on objective evaluations of or a response to an author’s creation. As such, they can be either positive or negative, as the work deserves. To write a critique, you...

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5 Keys For Writing Great Character Introductions

Writing great character introductions is an important way to get our readers invested in our story and interested in our characters. We want to help readers see and love our characters as much as we do!

Character introductions seem like they should be easy. Just tell people the character’s name and a couple of basic descriptions and we should be good to go.

However, we’re missing out on a lot of potential if we leave it at that.

First impressions are important, after all!

We want to spark interest. We want to impress. We want to make the reader invested and care about the character.

While there are library shelves full of different styles and genres of writing, here are a few key overall concepts of writing great character introductions.

1. Main Characters Go First

Protagonists and major characters should get more time and be introduced at the start of the story. This signals to the reader they are important, establishes character motivations , and helps build an immediate bond.

Secondary characters can have less information given right off the bat- this frees up space for major characters and lets readers know they are less important

… And yes, the villain is considered a main character . Depending on the plot of your story they may not be introduced until later- but make sure that one way or another they get some time and a memorable introduction!

2. One at a Time

Try not to introduce too many characters at once!

If we introduce too many characters at once it can be confusing. Instead, try to limit it to 1-2 at a time if possible and find ways to make each character distinctive from the others.

3. Be Specific

Using specific details when introducing a character helps create vivid images and is more interesting than vague or cliche descriptions.

Details are also a great opportunity to show what is unique about a certain character. Is their hand-me-down coat torn and a size too big? Do they wear a favorite Bon Jovi t-shirt or a pressed green dress with pearl buttons? Is their brown hair cut too short like they did it with the razor themselves?

Specific descriptions can help us visualize a character and give us a glimpse of who they are.

4. Be Succinct

This goes along with being specific. We want to convey as much as possible about a character with only a few words.

Too much information at once is overwhelming and boring. We don’t have time to explain a character’s entire backstory as soon as we meet them or show every detail of their character.

Instead we want a succinct introduction that hints at the core qualities of the character. We want just enough – just enough information and details that the reader knows what’s important and can visualize the character themselves.

We can always introduce more information later.

5. Leverage Everything

There is a lot more beyond name, hair, and eye color that we can use in introducing a character.

We want to utilize all 5+ of our senses and also use the full situation to our advantage.

What is the character we’re introducing doing? Is there a hint of emotion, baggage, or backstory? Do other people seem to like them or be intimidated by them? How do they interact with others? Are they happy to be there? Do they fit in to their situation?

This is all about being intentional in where, how, and when we introduce our characters. These situations can provide a glimpse of our characters’ attitudes, personalities, and values.

Maybe you have the kind-but-forgetful man who locks himself out of his apartment after stepping outside to feed a stray dog. The confident transgender teen who is giving a presentation at school about Marsha P. Johnson.

These are “characterizing moments” that can showcase the core of who a character is.

Bonus: The Off Screen Intro

Sometimes a character can be introduced without even being “on screen.”

Maybe our first intro to them is hearing them talked about by other people. In this case, the character’s reputation is their introduction which can set certain expectations for their later arrival.

This can be a valuable option for characters who will be important later on in the story so they won’t be a confusing surprise for the reader. Or it can be a fun “twist” if the expectations don’t line up with reality.

For further reading:

3 Ways To Introduce Your Main Character – Writers Digest

How To Introduce Characters – Now Novel

Character Intos That Make Readers Fall In Love – Write + Co. For Screenwriters

Establishing Important Characters – Mythcreants

How to Describe Women Without Degrading Them – Mythcreants

5 Tips for Create Engaging Characters – DIY MFA guest post by yours truly

What about you? Can you think of any really spectacular character introductions?

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4 thoughts on “ 5 Keys For Writing Great Character Introductions ”

What’s up, just wanted to mention, I loved this blog post. It was helpful. Keep on posting!

Thanks so much, Julia! 🙂

I just added this page to my favorites. I enjoy reading your posts. Tyvm!

Thanks so much!

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Home > All Writing Tips > The Secret to an Unforgettable Character Introduction

The Secret to an Unforgettable Character Introduction

It has come to my attention that not everyone understands the absolute necessity of a great first introduction for your characters?!

Seriously, when you introduce a character in your story, a first impression is everything. A good intro will make a character easier to remember AND solidify whatever character arc they end up progressing through during the story. Basically, you can get a lot of work done in just this one scene, so don’t waste it!

The trick? The key to a great character introduction is Show instead of Tell.

Also, as a side note: Don’t believe everything you’ve heard about “Show don’t tell.” There are times for showing and times for telling, so neither one is inherently bad. But in the case of introducing a character for the first time, “Show” is the better option. 🙂

Know your Character Introduction Goals.

As with any scene you write, there should be a goal in mind.

There should be some point you’re trying to get across to a reader, and something more in-depth than “make this character known.”

Please note this applies to main and support characters, not George at the cash register who has a single line of dialogue. You don’t need a fancy introduction for characters that simply don’t matter. That said, you should take time to craft a solid introduction for any character that’s important to your plot . So take some time to brainstorm a good setup!

When introducing a character, you typically have three goals:

1. who are they.

This might mean their name, career, role, etc. We don’t have to know everything up front, but think of it like answering “what is their relationship to the main character?” This can help us establish some context for how the character fits into the world we already know so far.

It could be first glance expectation and/or stereotype. We’re going for a first impression, and those aren’t always 100% accurate. Examples: student. thief. jock. babysitter.

P.S. Need help picking out a name? Check out Random Name Generators !

2. What are they like?

Personality-wise, mostly. We should see some bits of who they are start to shine through, even though again, we don’t know everything. A great intro will be fitting with who they are (such as their character core values ), what they value and care about , etc.

3. Why are they important?

Basically, their role in the story. Main character or supporting character? Hero, villain, or unsure?

NOTE: You don’t HAVE to have these three goals. And you can choose to answer them however you want.

We’re going to get into some examples later on, so seeing these questions answered in context should explain it better than vague bullet points!

Staging and Dialogue

My favorite way to answer those “goal” questions is with two good friends of ours: staging and dialogue.

Staging Your Character

Staging is the physical location or position of your character when we first see them. Body language should hint at their personality.

Yeah, this is a place where we as readers might make assumptions. If you want to steer them one way or the other, you can drop hints or let your narrator make some assumptions themselves.

Let’s say it’s Mary’s first day at her new school, and we want to introduce her to Carson. (PS: Mary and Carson are the creations of this moment, not previously made characters. So yes, this technique can be applied on the fly.)

When Mary sits down, Carson’s head is buried in his arms and he’s sleeping on his desk. There are about 5 minutes until class starts. Is he lazy? Tired? Maybe it’s a medical issue? You can wake up Carson and find out, or if you want to drop a hint right away, here’s your opportunity.

• We’re going for lazy. His hood (or hat) is drawn over his head, suggesting that he’s trying to block out the noise and/or light so he can sleep in peace. If he’s sleeping on a book, it’s closed. Other than that maybe the desk is empty.
• We’re going to tired and overworked. His pencil is still in his hand and he’s sleeping on an open book or some sort of assignment. When he shifts position we can see pen or pencil smudged on his cheek.

And that’s how you “show” a character through the medium of staging! Staging and some inventory, if you add a book or a pencil that gives even more hint at what they’re doing.

We never said “he’s lazy” or “he’s exhausted” because we can see him right there at the desk sleeping. It speaks for itself. Even before he says anything, we have some hints towards his personality.

Will these first impressions be proved wrong? Proved right?? Only time will tell. And frankly, we don’t need to know if that’s the truth right now or not. The important part: Mary’s taken notice, and she’s already formed some opinions. This will serve as the starting point for their relationship.

Your Character’s Dialogue

Similarly, the first dialogue exchanged between two characters should be out of the ordinary. After all, characters don’t always say the first thing that comes to mind , and it’s more interesting to watch characters sidestep their way through a conversation.

This depends, of course, and there are exceptions. But typically you might want to avoid their first words being “Hi, I’m Carson.” Again, see if it can speak directly to who they are and what they want.

Character Introduction Example Scene:

I double check the number by the door. Unless my schedule’s wrong, this is it. Biology. Frog dissection, reproductive cells, and Mendel’s pea pod experiment. Great. Despite the heart-to-heart Mom and I shared, I sit by the kid who’s sprawled over his desk. One less person to talk to is always a plus in my book. Besides, if the back of his head is anything to judge by, it never hurts to sit by some eye candy. I’ve just taken out my biology book when a pair of jocks squeeze past my desk and towards the back of the room. They bump sleeper’s desk, too, because a pen rolls from his stuff and hits the floor with a smack. “Sorry dude,” one says, giving the sleeper a friendly back pat. At the contact the kid jolts awake, then blinks at whatever book he fell asleep on as if it’s written in another language. The sharp intake of breath that follows sounds suspiciously close to a choked gasp. I eye him sideways. Dark hair, fair-featured. Then he’s whipping his head around the room. Around us, the rest of the students are still in various stages of milling with no obvious commitment to staying or leaving. I don’t recognize anyone, so I’m not entirely sure who he’s hoping to see. Finally, the kid turns a pair of impressive blue eyes on me. “Did I—” he starts, his mouth flopping open. “Hey, what class is this? Biology? Oh God, I’m so dead. What class is this?” he asks again. “Musical theory of the 1780s,” I respond automatically. The sarcasm in my voice is obvious to me, at least. “What? Really?” Sleeper closes the bio book he was snoozing on and starts stuffing things into his backpack like a robber at a bank. For a sec, I’m frozen. I was kidding. I was obviously kidding. I shift my biology textbook into his view, then lift my eyebrows in telepathic communication. Dumbass . “Oh. Oh, okay. Haha. Good. Thank God.” He leans back in his seat with a gust of pent up breath.  “Musical theory in a school like this? Funny. I should have known you were kidding.” The conversation is over, so we lapse into silence. I take out my pen. Check the time. Two more minutes. “Hey, are you new?” he asks. I glance back over at him. His eyes are wide like that possibility had just struck him. “Nah, I just always sit in the back.” “Oh.” I’m stuck between amused and downright embarrassed for the kid. I settle for a grin.  “Wow. You’re way too easy.”

So what all can we guess about the characters based on all this? Yes, there was some telling. It’s not a crime. It should just be mostly showing and letting the reader interpret it as they want to. When it comes to first impressions, having to rely on observations and guesses puts you in the same position as your character. They don’t quite know what to make of this new character, so neither should a reader.

Your readers are not stupid. They can read into a character’s expressions if you put those hints in there. When in doubt, have faith in them! You can always adjust as necessary when you get feedback from your beta readers.

As for those questions:

• Who is he? A student. Mary’s classmate. We have some context of how Carson fits into her life on a logistical level. We also see what he looks like.
• What are they like?  As a reader, I’d guess Carson is a bit high-strung based on his frantic replies to Mary. He cares about his schoolwork/grades enough to stress about it. He might be the kind of person who honestly tries (since he arrived to class early enough to get out his homework and then fall asleep before finishing it), but can’t seem to stay on top of things despite his efforts. Since he believes Mary so easily, he’s a bit gullible.
• Why are they important? Since this first interaction was friendly and laid back, we can assume he’ll become Mary’s friend and a supporting character in her life.

We’ve answered all the questions, which helps readers establish who he is and how he fits into everything. That said, we don’t know everything. And I, for one, am curious about who he is and what’s going on in his life to make him tired enough to fall asleep on his desk.

We have an entire book to learn more about him. But for now, at least, we have a solid framework to watch him grow from.

RELATED: The 5 Features that Make up a Dynamic Character

Closing thought: don’t tell us who these people are. just show us..

Yes, your viewpoint character is allowed to make observations and form opinions, but as long as you don’t impose their thoughts on a reader then it doesn’t fit the bad side of “telling.”

Also, don’t study this as if it were a formula. Staging+ Dialogue does not equal a great introduction.

Sometimes the dialogue is first. Sometimes the action. Sometimes one of them is missing. Sometimes you’ve got a single word of dialogue and a few minutes of extended action. Each introduction will be drastically different between different characters. It’s about a vivid, perhaps exaggerated first impression.

What are some of your favorite character introduction scenes?

Personally, I’m thinking about Cinder’s reintroduction scene in Scarlet by Marissa Meyers. We’re in a prison cell with a brand new narrator, and then Cinder kicks open a vent and drops down from above. It was such a visual and hilarious way to reintroduce her to us after the first book! 🙂

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Now I actually want to know the backstory for both characters mentioned in your demo! Not even so much what happens next, but I’m going a bit nuts from wondering how they each got there and what’s going on… in other words, you did a great job. 🙂

Haha thanks I’m glad you think so! In my opinion, being invested in the characters draws you into a story more than a plot. Of course, plot helps! 🙂

This is a wonderful post! I learned a lot. Thanks so much!

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How to Write a Character Analysis Essay With Examples and Tips

11 December 2023

last updated

Essay writing is an exciting and valuable academic exercise for students at all levels of learning. Basically, the practice helps in developing students’ critical thinking skills. For example, when writing a character analysis essay, students use these skills to cover a specific character’s personality and mannerisms objectively. Moreover, this type of essay aims to analyze a character in a story in such a way that readers can develop a mental picture of them. In this case, the secret of writing a good character analysis essay involves choosing a dynamic character, such as a protagonist or an antagonist. Then, another tip is to write the first draft and read it at least twice to identify and correct errors and mistakes. In turn, the final draft should reflect a perfect document. Hence, students need to learn how to write a good character analysis essay with its features.

Definition of a Character Analysis Essay

Among many different types of essays is a character analysis essay, a text that describes a particular character in a story. When writing this essay, students analyze relationships between characters in question and other characters, paying particular attention to their mannerisms. Also, these mannerisms are exemplified by their behaviors, styles of speaking, physical appearances, and many other characteristics. Even though students may offer their personal opinions when analyzing specific characters, they must employ critical thinking and be objective. In essence, what matters in a character analysis essay is factual information about a character in question. In this case, the writer’s opinion should support rather than challenge the specific traits and characteristics of a character. Hence, a student writes this type of essay when instructions require them to discuss how a particular character is shaped in a story.

Types of Characters

When analyzing a character in a story, writers must first understand what kinds of characters are their subjects. Typically, there are different types of characters whose distinctions are based on particular behaviors, traits, and roles that they exemplify within a story. In turn, the main character types fall under five categories: major, minor, dynamic, static, and stoic.

1. Major Characters

In a story, major characters run a storyline, and they define a plot of this story. For example, there are two types of major characters: protagonists and antagonists. In this case, the former represents typical heroes, those characters that the audience is likely to admire. Then, the latter represents characters that take the role of a villain. Basically, the audience is likely to despise this type of character. Moreover, it is easier to spot protagonists because a story’s plot revolves around them. In literature, examples of protagonists include Harry Potter from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, Othello from the tragedy Othello by William Shakespeare, Elizabeth Bennet from “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, and Frodo from The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien. On the other hand, examples of antagonists from the literature include King Joffrey from Game of Thrones , Darth Vader from the Star Wars series by George Lucas, and the Wicked Queen from “Snow White and Seven Dwarfs.”

2. Minor Characters

As opposed to major characters, minor characters do not run stories. However, they are ones that help major characters to shine through storylines. In other words, minor characters in the course of their activities help main characters to create situations and circumstances that reveal the central characters’ personalities. As explained, this personality is defined by mannerism. Then, examples of minor characters in the literature include the whole Fellowship of the Ring in J.R.R Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings. Individually, these characters help Frodo, a protagonist, to deliver the Ring to Mordor. In turn, another example of minor characters in literature is the duo Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series. On several occasions, they help Harry Potter, a protagonist, in his battle against Voldemort.

3. Dynamic, Static, and Stoic Characters

Dynamic characters are those characters that change the course of a story in certain respects. In many cases, a protagonist is a dynamic character. Moreover, an example in the literature is Harry Potter from J.K. Rowling’s book series, who notices that he is similar to Voldemort in many ways throughout a storyline. Nevertheless, he resists “dark” traits that define Voldemort because he is a good person. As such, he resists any temptation to become a dark wizard. On the other hand, static characters never change in a story. Also, an excellent example in the literature is Atticus Finch from “How to Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. Despite finding himself in controversial circumstances, he remains firm in character and worldview throughout a story. Further on, stoic characters draw attention to the main character(s), and their role in a story is to fortify the protagonist’s role and image. In turn, a great example of a stoic character in literature is Dr. Watson from Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle.

Step 1: Preparation

Preparation is the starting step in writing a critical analysis essay. In essence, this step involves planning how to go about writing. Basically, a student reads a story, chooses a character, defines a topic, prepares ideas, and considers the audience and its needs. In this case, the essence of preparation is that it enables students to “get it right” from the beginning. Moreover, it is by preparing that students take into consideration requirements and seek clarification as necessary.

A. Reading a Story

In most instances, instructors guide students on which story to read and a character to analyze. However, if such guidance is not provided, a student should – as a matter of priority – choose a story and a character in this story to write about. About a story, writers should read it at least twice to have a good understanding of a plot and each character’s role.

B. Choosing a Character

The standard practice is that a character analysis essay focuses on major characters (protagonist and antagonist) as subjects of analysis. However, as indicated, an instructor may require students to analyze a specific character. In this case, instructions can require students to explore how a minor character enhances a major character’s image in a story. Also, the writer’s issue is to identify characters for analysis and read all about them in an assigned story.

C. Defining a Topic

Like any essay, a character analysis essay should have a topic. Basically, even though the goal is to analyze a specific character, writers must have a topic that underscores their work. When defining a topic, students may follow the instructor’s prompt or develop their own approach. Ultimately, a character analysis essay topic should align with the paper’s goal, which is to analyze a specific character.

D. Preparing Ideas

Typically, students get ideas about their work as soon as they read prompt requirements given by their instructors. When writing a character analysis essay, a student should generate ideas after reading instructions and reading through them. However, it is the latter exercise that serves as the foundation of ideas for writing a text. Indeed, this aspect exemplifies the essence of a character analysis essay, focusing on how a character emerges from a story. As discussed, a character can only be a protagonist, antagonist, minor, dynamic, or stoic. Understanding where characters fit helps a writer to generate ideas about effects of their roles in a story. Here, students should apply critical thinking to dissect characters objectively.

E. Considering an Audience

Every form of writing has an audience – readers that writers have in mind when writing their texts. In essay writing, the main audience is the instructor. However, in an application essay for college , the audience is the admission board of a college or university. Since instructors determine the quality of a character analysis essay, students should consider their requirements. Ideally, these requirements reflect what instructors, as the audience, need regarding a character analysis essay.

Step 2: Setting Up the Stage

The second step in writing a character analysis essay is setting the stage for the actual writing of a text. Here, students engage in several activities, including finding credible sources , making notes, creating an essay outline , and creating an annotated bibliography. As an academic text, a character analysis essay should satisfy all academic writing conventions, including backing up claims and arguments with evidence. Although a learner can write about a character in a story by simply reading a story, a character analysis reflects an in-depth discussion about a specific character. Hence, students should write about what others (scholars) have said about a story and a character.

A. Finding Sources

Reliable sources are external texts that writers rely on to find evidence supporting what they intend to write. Basically, when writers make claims or observations when composing a text, they must back it up with evidence to avoid making what they write seems like a personal opinion. Notably, subjective opinion is not encouraged in academic writing, unless writers are using it objectively. Moreover, the only way that students can demonstrate that their essays are free of bias is by providing evidence for their claims, arguments, opinions, and observations. In turn, this evidence comes from external academic sources – books and journal articles.

B. Making Notes

After finding sources, a student should read through them while making notes. Basically, these notes should be relevant to a task at hand. Therefore, when authors of a character analysis essay find sources pertinent to their mission, they should make notes as they read through them and write down what they find interesting about their characters. Given that the task at hand involves analyzing a character in question, students’ notes should reflect a deeper understanding of this character, such as what others say about their manner of speaking or effect in a story.

C. Creating an Outline and an Annotated Bibliography

Like any other academic text, such as a research paper , a term paper , a Master’s thesis , or a dissertation , essays have outlines that provide a structure. Typically, this outline involves having three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. When writing a character analysis essay, a student should stick to this essay structure . Then, an annotated bibliography summarizes study sources that writers intend to use to get evidence that backs up their claims and arguments. Although it is not needed in an essay, students who write a character analysis essay can develop one based on credible sources that they identified in the second step of essay writing. In this case, annotated bibliographies would provide quick access to evidence that learners need to strengthen their papers.

Step 3: Actual Writing of a Character Analysis Essay

After preparing and setting the stage, authors of a character analysis essay begin the actual writing of a paper. Here, students begin with the first draft, which provides an opportunity to organize thoughts, make mistakes, come up with new ideas, find new sources that back them up, and alter a critical analysis essay outline. Basically, this stage is about putting everything together to develop an essay that addresses the instructor’s requirements.

A. Writing a First Draft of a Character Analysis Essay

When writing a character analysis essay, students are likely to make numerous spelling and grammatical errors and other mistakes, such as inconsistent arguments and illogical conclusions. As such, writing the first draft provides writers with this allowance since they would have an opportunity to perfect their work. Nonetheless, the first draft’s content should mirror the expected work, which is dissecting a character’s personality. 

Step 4: Wrapping Up

After writing the first draft of a character analysis essay, students must read and reread their work to identify all mistakes and errors. As discussed above, the chances of the first draft having spelling and grammatical errors, illogical conclusions, and inconsistent arguments are high. In turn, this fourth step in writing a character analysis essay provides students with an opportunity to perfect their work. Here, learners revise and edit the first draft to eliminate all errors and mistakes and ensure that their papers reflect a format of an academic text in all aspects. Also, body paragraphs should have topic and concluding sentences, transitions, and right formatting. Additionally, writers should subject their work to peer review and then write the final draft.

A. Revising and Editing the First Draft

The purpose of reading the first draft at least twice is to identify all errors and mistakes, as explained above. Basically, once writers note them down, they should revise their papers accordingly, ensuring that all inconsistencies are corrected. Moreover, students should edit all spelling and grammatical mistakes to give a written document to look like a professional appeal.

B. Topic Sentences.

The first statement that a student writes in every paragraph in the main text (body) should reflect a topic sentence. Basically, this sentence aims to introduce a single idea that a writer intends to develop in a paragraph. By considering a character analysis essay, this idea can be a claim or an observation about a subject under analysis. In this case, the standard practice is that a single idea that a writer expresses in a topic sentence should align with a paper’s thesis statement , as it is developed in the introduction part of a character analysis essay.

C. Concluding Sentences

While a topic sentence introduces a paragraph, a concluding sentence brings it to a close. For example, a reason why a student writes a concluding sentence is to finalize an intended message captured in a section. As such, it provides the writer’s concluding thoughts about a topic sentence and how it advances a thesis statement. Also, the content that comes between topic sentences and concluding sentences reinforces a sandwich rule: making a claim, backing it up with supporting facts, elaborating on it, and indicating its relevance in a context of a thesis.

D. Transitions

In writing a character analysis essay, students need to create a document with a natural flow from a beginning to an end. Basically, the aspect that enhances this flow is the use of transitions, which involve words and phrases, like “consequently,” “hence,” “thus,” “nonetheless,” “as such,” and “put differently.” In this case, a writer can use these words and phrases in any part of a text. However, using them in the main text is more appropriate as it is where writers need to create linkages between claims, evidence, and elaborations. Hence, transitions make such connections flawless and logical.

E. Formatting

When writing an academic text, it is critical for students to observe all academic writing rules. For example, one of these rules is writing a character analysis essay according to assigned rules that guide a paper format that learners are using to write their work. In this case, the main paper formats are APA 7, MLA 8, Harvard, and Chicago/Turabian, all of which differ in certain ways. For instance, they all have different requirements for citations and paragraph formation. Therefore, when writing a character analysis essay, a student should format a paper according to the appropriate writing format. Although learners may observe this rule when writing the first draft, they should certainly do so when creating the final draft.

F. Peer Reviewing

When writing a character analysis essay, students should ensure that their work is of high quality. Basically, what makes an academic text of high quality is peer review, which means subjecting a written work to a critical review by a friend, tutor, or mentor. For example, journal articles are regarded as peer-reviewed scholarly sources for a simple reason that they have been reviewed and made perfect. In turn, this perfection entails ensuring the absence of errors and mistakes and the use of credible and reliable sources.

Step 5: Writing a Final Draft of a Character Analysis Essay

The final draft represents the final work of a student in writing a character analysis essay. Basically, it is a document that students hand over to the audience by way of submission or publication. As such, writers must ensure that their texts are of the highest standard to eliminate the possibility of attracting penalties, such as a low grade or lousy review, in case they publish their work on online platforms. Also, to be clear that what students have is of the highest quality, they should read and reread their papers. In turn, it is the only way in which they can be sure that there are no errors or mistakes.

Simple Outline Example of a Character Analysis Essay

As indicated in the previous section, students should take time and create an outline for their work when writing an essay. This outline comprises three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion as below.

I. Introduction Paragraph II. Body Section (this part may include several paragraphs) III. Conclusion Paragraph

While most academic texts follow this outline, some papers differ on features that writers address in each section. Basically, when writing a character analysis essay, students should ensure that the introduction section highlights its thesis. In turn, this statement guides the entire writing, meaning that it is the central claim or idea in a paper. In body paragraphs, writers should ensure that topic sentences open each paragraph while concluding sentences end them. Moreover, learners should ensure sufficient and appropriate use of transitions and observance of a sandwich rule. In the conclusion section, students should restate the thesis and summarize the paper’s main points.

How Students Know That They Write a Character Analysis Essay

Generally, the purpose of a character analysis essay is to provide an in-depth analysis of a specific character. As such, writers know that they write a character analysis essay if their texts describe a given character’s personality and mannerisms. In turn, the latter entails how a character in question behaves, speaks, looks like (physical features), and their familial and social relationships, as it is covered in a story.

How a Character Analysis Essay Differs From Other Papers

When it comes to an outline, a character analysis essay is similar to other types of papers . However, regarding the content, this type of essay differs from other papers significantly. For example, an argumentative essay focuses on making the writer’s argument acceptable to the audience, meaning that the content revolves around the writer’s perspective regarding an issue. In contrast, a character analysis essay focuses on providing the audience with a detailed picture of a specific character in a story, meaning that the content revolves around a subject (character). In an informative essay , the writer’s goal is to educate the audience about a topic or an issue, meaning that the content revolves around explaining concepts relating to a specific theme in question. Therefore, the point of difference between a character analysis essay and other essay types is content more than structure.

Easy Strategies for Writing Each Section of a Character Analysis Essay

When it comes to the introduction, authors of a character analysis essay should provide a hook, which can be a statement, quote, or a joke. Basically, a hook sentence aims to grab the reader’s attention and make them interested in reading the entire paper. Then, if students know how to write a hook , they provide a brief background of a text after it. Also, it is where they introduce a story and a character under investigation. In turn, writers should conclude this section with a thesis, thus outlining the purpose of writing. About the main text (body), if learners are familiar with the rules of how to write a topic sentence , they begin each paragraph with it, which establishes a claim. Further on, the feature that follows is evidence (supporting facts) and then an explanation. As a result, the last element is a concluding sentence. 

1. Paying an Attention

Based on the above information, it is evident that authors of a character analysis essay must pay attention to several things. In the introduction, writers should pay attention to the thesis, and, in the body paragraphs, they should follow a sandwich rule. Basically, this rule reinforces the claim-evidence-explanation approach. In the conclusion section, students should pay attention to the main points’ summary to make sure no new information is captured in this paragraph. Additionally, learners should ensure that they provide closing remarks, which emphasize their objective opinions about subjects matter.

2. Major Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Besides spelling, grammatical and other mistakes, writers of essays make other mistakes, leading to the fact that their work becomes less than high-quality. In writing a character analysis essay, one mistake that students make is to focus on a single aspect, such as personality, thereby undermining the subject’s full image. In this case, the solution to this mistake for a writer is to focus on the character’s mannerisms – behavior, speaking style, and appearance. Then, another mistake that learners make is to focus on aspects that do not advance an in-depth analysis of a subject, such as a story’s plot. In turn, the solution to this mistake for students is to focus on the subject’s roles in a plot’s context.

An Example of Writing a Character Analysis Essay

Topic: Frodo and His Heroic Weakness

I. Sample Introduction of a Character Analysis Essay

In literature, characters play an essential role in enhancing the plot of a story. Basically, they do this through their actions, behaviors, relationships, and other aspects of personality. Moreover, their mannerisms define who they are within the context of a story. In The Lord of the Ring , J.R.R. Tolkien captures a heroic conscience that characterizes human existence. Then, the author reveals the destructive power of greed and envy, mainly where promises are concerned. Nonetheless, Tolkien shows how friendship and courage overcome these vices. At the center of a story , The Lord of the Ring, is Frodo Baggins, a protagonist, who, despite undergoing a series of challenging adventures, emerges as a hero.

II. Example of a Body in a Character Analysis Essay

A. frodo as a hero.

Tolkien develops Frodo as a young hobbit with a remarkable character. As a ring-bearer of a fellowship, Frodo has the Ring that belongs to Sauron, the Lord of the Rings. As such, Sauron is an antagonist in a story. For example, he is “a dark lord who lost the one Ring that held much of his power” (Tolkien, 2003, p. 54). Then, the author describes the Ring as precious and powerful enough to enslave Middle Earth. While everybody is scared of the Ring and no one wants to lead its destruction, Frodo courageously overcomes such fear. Despite a myth that absolute evil and frightening dark forces are likely to victimize anyone who attempts to destroy the Ring, the young hobbit is keen to prove everybody wrong. In turn, it is the anger toward myths and oppressions that they seemed to cause people that motivate Frodo to act to restore safety in Middle Earth. 

B. Frodo’s Weakness

The first indication of Frodo’s inexperience comes when he faces his initial challenges in his quest. Basically, how he deals with them reveals his weak points. For example, when Frodo delays his departure from the Shire, in spite of the urgency of the task ahead, he comes out as an indecisive character (Tolkien, 2003). Although a protagonist has common sense, he lacks wisdom, which is evident when he chooses to face the Old Forest’s dangers. Besides getting himself into harm’s way, Frodo also endangers the lives of his friends. In this case, he comes out as a fool in Bree when he draws unnecessary attention to himself. At Weathertop, the main character gives in to the temptation of putting on the Ring, thus exposing himself to an attack by the Ringwraiths (Tolkien, 2003). Despite all these shortcomings, Frodo survives the dangers of his own mistakes and those of his quest. Moreover, the novel attributes this success to the fact that hobbits are tougher than they look and can endure hardships. More importantly, Frodo himself is not interested in possessing the Ring, which makes him avoid the dark forces it represents. In this respect, he emerges as a hero in the end.

III. Conclusion Example of a Character Analysis Essay

Frodo’s adventure in The Lord of the Ring is a selfless quest to bring good to society despite powerful myths that undermine people’s courage to act when needed. In this case, Tolkien describes specific events that characterize the protagonist’s quest to destroy Sauron’s Ring. Moreover, what is clear is that Frodo is a courageous hobbit who refuses to be defined by his weaknesses. Eventually, his actions display his heroic character, one that defies all odds against him. In turn, a lesson from a story is that people do not need to be perfect to be heroes, but they need to aspire to do what is right.

Arthur, S. (2003). Walking with Frodo: A devotional journey through the Lord of the Rings . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc.

Summing Up on How to Write a Good Character Analysis Essay

When writing a character analysis essay, students must understand that this type of paper is different from all others. While an argumentative essay focuses on convincing the audience about an issue, a character analysis essay covers telling the audience about a specific character’s personality and mannerisms within the context of a story’s plot. As such, it also differs from an informative essay that focuses on educating the audience about a topic or an issue. Nonetheless, all these essays assume the same outline, which entails three main sections: introduction, body, and conclusion. In turn, when writing a character analysis essay, a student must note the following tips:

• Read the instructions carefully.
• Read a story.
• If there is no instruction about a character, choose a dynamic character, who is either a protagonist or antagonist.
• Reread a story and make notes that are specific to a chosen character.
• Develop a thesis statement.
• Draft an outline.
• Write the first draft.
• Read and reread the first draft to identify and correct errors and mistakes.
• Subject the first draft to a peer review.
• Write the final draft.
• Read and reread the final draft.

To Learn More, Read Relevant Articles

How to write a critical response essay with examples and tips, free personal narrative examples: basic guidelines with tips.

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A character analysis is a type of essay that requires you to analyze and evaluate the characteristics, traits, motivations, and decisions of a literary character. It involves closely examining such aspects as their personality, thoughts, behavior, and development. You should further explain how a character contributes to the overall meaning of the work.

When writing a character analysis essay, it is important to think critically and look beyond basic understanding of the character. For example, instead of simply describing their physical traits or explaining what happens in the plot, focus on how the characters think, feel, and interact with other characters. Examine the motivations behind their decisions and actions, as well as how they reflect a larger theme or idea in the work. 

In this blog, we will explain how to write a character analysis essay. You will find a strtucture, outline and step-by-step guidelines along with examples.

If you don’t have much time for reading, we’ve got an easy solution for you. Entrust your assignment to essay writing services by StudyCrumb and get a custom paper tailored to your specific requirements.  

What Is a Character Analysis Essay?

The main task of a character analysis essay is showing in detail key characteristics and certain person’s traits. Essay includes not just ordinary situations. It shows possible occasions for describing fictives fully and circumstantial. This type of essay helps understand how a hero will act in this or that situation, why would he do so, what were his reasons for these deeds? Analysis helps in figuring out what role a person plays in a story: great one or just secondary. Moreover, knowing the needed words of an analysis essay will enlarge students’ spoken literature.  

What Is a Purpose of Character Analysis Essay?

Main purpose of a character analysis essay is helping the reader understand who's the bad one and who is among the good guys. This helps catch the idea of the story from the beginning. Knowing how a hero acts in this or that separate case, speaks a lot about his point of view. Essay divides all characters into main and minor ones. Detailed character analysis essay helps readers understand the nature of personages from an early beginning. Very often the story has several chapters, so the reader could discover much about a certain person from his doings/opinions.  

Types of Character Using in Character Analysis Essay

While writing a character analysis essay, students have to remember two central personages: protagonist (key person) and antagonist. These are the main ones. The most striking roles are divided between them. Additional (minor) figures:  

Each hero has special traits and behaviors. The round one is described as a person of passion having depth in feelings. Foil one is opposite one to positive, main one. Flat one is another side of round one: no vivid emotions, no changes while the story is being told. Use our  college essay writing service to turn in the best character analysis your instructor has ever seen.

Protagonist — The Main Character

Protagonist in character analysis essays is the main story’s hero. This is a person all situations revolve around. They are the bearer of truth, the spokesman for the author's ideas, the main drive behind the plot. They don't have to even be a positive hero. After all, there is also an antihero - a protagonist with morally ambiguous or straight-up negative traits. Protagonist is a key figure, all other personages are considered minor ones. For better understanding of the protagonist, consider these examples: Romeo and Juliet, Katniss («Hunger Games»), Harry Potter, MacBeth. You can also consider Walter White («Breaking Bad»), Dexter Morgan («Dexter») and Hannibal Lecter («The Silence of the Lambs») to be antiheroes. All these examples are dynamic.  

Antagonist — Character in the Opposite Position

Antagonist in character analysis essays is an opposite one to the protagonist. This type of character belongs to the dark side. Often, this can be a jealous, envious, bad, villain gossip person. They don't have to be the one ruining good protagonist’s plans, but they alway get in hero's way. Actually, there may even be more than one antagonist who may become hindrance for the protagonist. And if they are neutral in present, in the nearest future they will show their nature. Opposition between both protagonists and antagonists is clearly seen throughout the whole story. There is, of course, a catch. As with protagonists, there's more to know about antagonists' traits. After all, an anti-villain is also a thing! Basically it's when an antagonist has some heroic traits or can be sympathized with. One can also say that it's that type of person who has good intentions or their goal is pretty good, but their methods took a very wrong turn at some point. Othello, Captain Hook and Lord Voldemort — great antagonists’ examples. And those like John Silver, Khan («Star Trek») and Erik Lensherr («The X-Man») can be called anti-villain basically.  

Major Characters

Major characters in character analysis essays are those who create a story. They play main (and clearly - important) parts, and have key roles. They make a so-called key set of personages. They are close confidants to the protagonist. If some conflict appears, major figures are mentioned first. Robinson Crusoe is a bright example.

Minor Characters

Minor characters in character analysis essays are often called supporting. They are important, but rarely are described in the story as key ones. This kind of fictives is represented by Yoda, Samwise Gamgee, Jabba the Hutt. They don’t remarkably influence the actual plot. Why flat? Because of no vivid progression.

Dynamic Characters

Talking about dynamic characters in character analysis essays - Shrek is a fine example. He is a dynamic personage because he changes: becomes softer and opens his heart to people. Fictives like him influence the story and make changes in the course of events. Their main feature: they change and grow throughout the story, making the reader sympathize with them. Another good example: Aladdin, Merida, Simba, Anakin Skywalker.

Static Characters

Static characters in character analysis essays do not change throughout whole story. They remain the same with their thoughts and opinions. Static personages are best described with the likes of Indiana Jones, Robin Hood, Sherlock Holmes. These personages are positive ones - though, unchangeable. Their points of view and tastes remain identical until a story ends.

Foils in character analysis essays are based on stereotypes and are opposite of main heroes. They have several key characteristics: they are wicked, distracted, conniving and scrooge. At the same time main personages are principled, focused, generous, and well-meaning. Foils are depressed and pessimistic, while main heroes — optimistic, kind, and good.

How to Analyze Characters in Character Analysis Essay?

While writing a character analysis essay, you should give a hero a general picture. Description has to grab appearance peculiarities and traits. Students must depict whether personage is good or bad. Are they pessimists or optimists? Do they have negative or positive thoughts? There are 3 main steps for analysis:  

To explore tiny personage’s quirks, all characteristics are taken into account. Just like in any  literary analysis essay , you will need to pay special attention to literary devices that help reveal the true nature of a character.  

How to Write a Character Analysis Essay Outline?

Character analysis essay outline includes 3 main parts: introduction, body, conclusion. Below you can find short description to understand some peculiarities:

Additionally, it will be good to write how a situation changed because of main hero's influence.

How to Write a Character Analysis Essay?

Instruction for writing character analysis essays is based on several steps. First, read a story carefully to find a person whom you are interested in. After reading the book, students should be able to completely grasp a key idea. Next steps include:

Concerning last point, think over next questions:

Understanding an effect that main hero has on plot, it is easy to grasp the meaning the author put in their work.

How to Begin a Character Analysis Essay?

Character analysis essay introduction is the first step to start. It should describe whole essay in miniature. It's kind of a catchy hook for readers to get interested and proceed to explore chosen book. Introduction shows a completely full story in several paragraphs. To show all necessary information, make use of the thesis statement. These are rounded with text. It is fine to describe some catchy scenes and episodes to fuel readers’ interest.  

Character Analysis Essay Body Paragraphs?

While introduction is a grand way to actually introduce the hero, character analysis essay body goal is identification of main personages features. Body should depict:

Dynamic figure is key personage. Separate attention is given especially to them. Additional paragraph should describe a reader's feelings: what words are associated with a hero? Brave, modest, lucky, confident? Answers are key points to create a comprehensive description.

How to End a Character Analysis Essay?

How to write a conclusion paragraph for an essay ? Character analysis essay conclusion contains author’s point of view on course of events. Main ideas should be described shortly and clearly. Final part is a kind of review but with student's opinion. Lessons learned are described. For example, a story might teach how to live honestly, help poor people, feel merciful to others, etc. Remember that sheets’ personages teach us how to behave in real life. Many situations shown will be useful in everyday life. Hero’ deeds teach us how to cope with problems and find ways from tangled situations.  

Character Analysis Essays: Final Thoughts

A character analysis essay is used for composing lines between parallel personages. It shows the present course of events that will make sense in future. Important traits and characteristics that are depicted in the book. They have a hidden idea, some kind of lesson. Comprehensive analysis helps to understand the meaning the author wanted to shed light on. Knowing main heros’ personal characteristics helps to explain their behavior and world perception. Buy essays for college in case this assignment isn't what you wanted to do this evening.  

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

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• confidante.
• Describing personality.
• Determining type of protagonist.
• Defining role in story.
• Introduction should be meaningful and brief. After reading this piece, essay’s idea should be understood.
• Main body is one that should be divided into paragraphs with described main heroes. It should give detailed answers to different questions concerning personality and appearance. Pay attention, separate paragraph depicts what we learn from hero or situation.
• Conclusion is the one where you should draw the final line of analysis. Summarize points you've given above, loop to your thesis statement or give your reader some food for thought. Just remember that this section should be brief.
• choosing dynamic hero ;
• taking notes;
• defining main idea;
• answering analysis questions.
• What is hero's value?
• What kind of emotions does your hero go through?
• Does personage have a profound impact on plot?
• What are relationships between heroes and other significant figures?
• Hero’s personality and physical appearance.
• Conflicts and ways of overcoming them.
• Lessons readers should learn.
• Meaning behind hero's actions.

FAQs' for Character Analysis Essay

1. what is a good thesis statement for a character analysis essay.

Character analysis essay is saturated with essential messages. It appears at the end (in last sentence) of introductory paragraph. Its task is to inform reader about information they will get acquainted with. Every sentence has hidden meaning concerning heroes. Remember, introduction must be brief but meaningful. Student’s thesis statements should be specific — include only points that will be discussed. Good thesis statement should grab readers’ attention, make them read whole story.  

2. What kind of essay is character analysis?

A character analysis essay mostly deals with certain books’ personages, though, figures from cinematography are involved. Its task is to explain in-depth key features of personages. Antagonist and protagonist are main ones. There also exist additional ones. This kind of an essay explains behavior and state of mind. Personal traits and preferences also make up whole picture described.

3. How do you write a literary character analysis essay?

Character analysis essay demands describing chosen personage in detail. Firstly though, it is needed to determine personage’s type. Next step include turning to plot for showing examples. Students have to explain why personages decide do act that way, after all.

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How to Start a Narrative Essay

Last Updated: February 13, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 201,728 times.

A narrative essay tells a story, which allows you to flex your creative muscles. Your story may be fictional or nonfictional, depending on the requirements of your assignment. At first, starting your narrative essay might seem hard, but you can make your work simpler by narrowing down your topic and planning out your story. Then, you’ll be able to easily write your story’s introduction.

Choosing a Topic for Your Narrative

• If your instructor provides a rubric, read over it thoroughly to identify the expectations for full credit. Later, you can measure your essay against the rubric before turning in the assignment.
• If you have questions about the assignment, ask your instructor for clarification.

• List the first thoughts that come to mind when you think about the prompt or question.
• Make a mind map to sort out your ideas.
• Use freewriting to uncover story ideas. Simply write whatever comes to mind without worrying about grammar or making sense.
• Make an outline to help put your ideas in order.

• Don’t try to cover too much in one essay, as this will be too hard for your reader to follow.
• For example, let’s say the prompt reads: “Write about a setback that taught you perseverance.” You might want to write about an injury you overcame. To narrow down your story, you might focus on the first time you exercised your injured limb after the accident, as well as the difficulties you faced.

• For instance, the story about recovering from an injury might have a theme of overcoming hardships or persevering to reach a goal. You might want your reader to finish your story feeling inspired and uplifted. To achieve this feeling, you'd want to focus on your successes throughout the process and end the story with a positive thought.

Planning Your Story

• If you are a character in your story, you will still need to complete this step. It's up to you how much detail you want to write down about yourself. However, it's helpful to take note of your description, interests, and desires at the time the story takes place, especially if a lot of time has passed.
• A main character description might look like this: “Kate, 12 - An athletic basketball player who suffers an injury. She wants to recover from her injury so she can return to the court. She’s the patient of Andy, a physical therapist who is helping her recover.”
• A side character description might read like this: “Dr. Lopez is a friendly, fatherly middle-aged doctor who treats Kate in the emergency room.”

• For example, a story about overcoming a sports injury might include a few settings, such as the basketball court, the ambulance, the hospital, and a physical therapy office. Although you want to show your reader each setting, you'll spend the most time on the main setting of your story.
• You might list the following descriptors about the basketball court: “squeaky floor,” “roar of the crowd,” “bright overhead lights,” “team colors in the stands,” “smell of sweat and sports drinks,” and “wet jersey sticking to my back.”
• Your story may feature several different settings, but you don't need to provide the same level of detail about each one. For instance, you may be in an ambulance for a brief moment in the scene. You don't need to fully describe the ambulance, but you might tell the reader about "feeling cold and alone in the sterile ambulance."

• For example, you might introduce a young basketball player who is about to make a big play. The incident that kicks off the story might be her injury. Then, the rising action is the basketball player’s efforts to complete physical therapy and get back into the game. The climax might be the day of tryouts for the team. You might resolve the story by having her find her name on the team list, at which point she realizes she can overcome any obstacle.
• It’s helpful to use Freytag’s triangle or a graphic organizer to plan your essay. Freytag's triangle looks like a triangle with a long line to its left and a short line to its right. It's a tool that helps you plan out your story's beginning (exposition), an incident that starts your story's events, the rising action, a climax, the falling action, and the resolution of your story.
• You can find a Freytag's triangle template or a graphic organizer for your narrative essay online. [8] X Research source

• The most common types of conflict include person vs. person, person vs. nature, and person vs. self. Some stories will have more than one type of conflict.
• In the story about the young athlete who gets injured, her conflict might be person vs. self, as she’s having to push through her pain and limitations.

• In most cases, a personal narrative will use the 1st person “I” point-of-view. For example, “Over my last summer with my grandfather, I learned more than how to fish.”
• If you’re telling a fictional story, you might use the 3rd person point of you. Use your character’s name, as well as the appropriate pronouns like “he” or “she.” For instance, “Mia picked up the locket and opened it.”

Writing Your Introduction

• Start your essay with a rhetorical question. For instance, “Have you ever faced losing something that’s important to you?”
• Give a quote that fits your essay. You might write, “According to Rosa Gomez, ‘You don’t know how strong you are until a setback breaks you.”
• Provide an interesting fact that’s related to your story. As an example, “About 70% of kids will stop playing sports by the age of 13, and I was almost one of them.”
• Use a short anecdote that relates to the larger story. For your essay about overcoming an injury, you might include a short story about your best moment playing sports before your injury.
• Start with a shocking statement. You might write, “As soon as they loaded me into the ambulance, I knew I might never play sports again.”

• Let’s say your main character is you. You could write, “As a tall, lean 12-year-old, I easily outplayed the other girls on the court.” This gives the reader a picture about what you might look like, as well as your interest in sports and athletic ability.
• If you’re telling a fictional story, you might introduce your character like this: “As she walked toward the high school debate podium, Luz exuded confidence from her Kate Spade headband down to her thrift shop Betsey Johnson pumps.” Not only does this help the audience picture Luz, but it also shows that she puts effort into her appearance. The fact that she shops at thrift stores might indicate that her family isn’t as wealthy as she portrays.

• You might write, “It was my 7th-grade year, and I knew I had to make varsity if I were going to get attention from the high school coaches.”
• Sensory details trigger your senses of sight, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. As an example, “My shoes squeaked across the court as I dribbled toward the goal line, the red basket in sight. Sweat made the ball feel slippery against my fingertips, and its salty taste coated my lips.”

• For instance, you might write, “I never expected that pass across the court to be my last for the season. However, recovering from my injury taught me I’m a strong person who can accomplish anything I set out to do.”

Sample Introduction and Outline

Expert Q&A

• A narrative essay will always tell a story, so make sure your essay has a clear plot. Thanks Helpful 2 Not Helpful 0

• Don’t borrow someone else’s ideas for your story or copy someone else’s writing. This is plagiarism and can result in severe academic penalties, including loss of credit. Thanks Helpful 37 Not Helpful 0

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• ↑ https://www.nova.edu/tutoring-testing/study-resources/forms/planning-narrative-essay.pdf
• ↑ https://spcollege.libguides.com/c.php?g=254430&p=1697470
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/essay_writing/narrative_essays.html
• ↑ https://human.libretexts.org/Bookshelves/Literature_and_Literacy/Writing_and_Critical_Thinking_Through_Literature_(Ringo_and_Kashyap)/02%3A_About_Creative_Nonfiction/2.02%3A_Elements_of_Creative_Nonfiction
• ↑ https://penandthepad.com/start-narrative-essay-english-7667341.html

About This Article

If you’re struggling to start your narrative essay, find a way to encourage your reader to keep reading and introduce your main characters. Since opening lines can pull a reader in, choose something catchy that’s related to your story. For example, if your essay is about loss, you could open with a question like, “Have you ever faced losing something that’s important to you?” Then, add some details about your story’s setting that will interest the reader, such as describing how your trainers squeaked as you dribbled across the court if your story is about sports. You should also include enough information about the main character to peak the reader’s interest, like “She was a tall, lean 12-year-old,” but not too much so they know everything. For tips from our Writing co-author on how to plan out your entire narrative essay before you start writing, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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March 20, 2023

How to Introduce Characters: Examples, Problems, and Genre

Fiction Writing Tips , Writing

characters , creativity , fiction , literature , narrative , writing

Whether you write short stories or novels, fantasy fiction or literary fiction , you have to deal with characters . Even experimental fiction needs some sort of characters. Is there an optimal way of introducing your characters to your audience?

This might feel like a deceptively simple thing. Surely, one might think, introducing characters can’t be that hard? Well, writing is as hard as you make it , in a way, but that’s beyond the point. Rather, our point in this post is to discover whether there is an optimal way of presenting your characters to your readers.

Obviously, the statement is rhetorical.

Of course there are more than one ways of introducing your characters to your audience, which automatically makes some of those ways “better” – and we’ll soon have to define that – and some “not so great”. Which means, as a writer you have a strong incentive to reflect on how you introduce your characters in your fiction.

That’s what I’m here for!

In this post I’ll show you – with examples – the different ways we can use to introduce the characters of our story. I’ll explain why some ways are “better” than others (and what that really means), though we’ll also take a look at some problem points; gray areas, if you like. Sneak preview: These have to do with the ever-lasting struggle to balance between genre and literary expression, between marketing and art.

The “Better” Way to Introduce Characters

The caption of the photo above should give you an idea regarding what “better”, “best”, or “optimal” might imply in this context: The more supportive of your authorial aims the introduction of your characters is, the better. In other words, if your methodology of introducing your characters helps you achieve whatever it is you want to achieve, then it’s “good”.

This might sound like a truism of some sort, but it’s necessary to help us understand that introducing characters is, like everything else in literature, a matter of priorities.

And so, with the above in mind, the right thing to do when you introduce your characters is to do it in a way that supports the narrative at large.

How, you’ll rightly ask.

Once Again, the Power of Concepts

Starting with concepts is powerful because it allows you to connect the various aspects of your narrative in a coherent manner. Literature is a connection game , remember.

In simpler terms, an author’s job becomes far easier when they have a clear picture not only of the plot, the characters, the “what happens” – and even the “ how it feels ” – but also of how all these fit together .

For example, if you’re a science fiction author and you’ve paid a lot of attention to the world of your story , reflecting deeply on things such as the accuracy of the physics, the feasibility of the setting, and so on, but then you have a spell-casting wizard as a character, something is “wrong” – though we’ll come back to this in the conclusion.

Your characters need to be consistent with your narrative, that much should be obvious.

What perhaps is less obvious – and here’s where this post squeezes itself in – is that the way you introduce characters is part of this consistency.

Some Examples on How to Introduce Characters

Let’s begin with some examples that I’ll use to expand on the themes above. Once again I’ll rely on my own books, not out of vanity but because I know them intimately. In other words, I can precisely explain why I decided to introduce the characters the way I did.

Most of my novels are available as an immediate free download – simply visit the Fiction page on the main site . And remember, you can also just email me and ask for a free, no-strings-attached (e.g. review etc.) digital copy of any of my books.

The Other Side of Dreams : Prioritizing “How It Feels”

And let’s start with The Other Side of Dreams :

To feel humiliated was an almost daily experience for him, the way other people try to decide between a cappuccino and a latte. Quite often he was made to feel that way through other people’s piercing stares – that penetrating gaze that burns “not welcome” on your mind like the pulsating red iron of a slave owner. The rest of the time he made sure to do the thinking for them: They look at me, he’d hear himself whisper like a scared mouse, quick, quick, look away, don’t let them see you seeing them.

But the worst shame came when he was alone with himself, trapped inside his mind which was trapped inside his body which was trapped inside his one-room apartment with the flaking walls and the leaky faucet. It came when he had to calculate whether he could afford all the ingredients needed for the bean soup, or when he tried to decide what would be more nutritious, a casserole without cheese or a risotto without any vegetables. Perhaps he ought to skip breakfast altogether, then it could work for another week. Sometimes he didn’t eat at all, to feed her instead and her special, destructive hunger.

She called him Ahmed, but that wasn’t his name – in actual fact, he didn’t possess his name either, as it had already been chosen by his father when the man was born

In a literary-fiction story revolving around concepts such as immiseration, societal alienation, psychological breakdown, and loss of control, I felt the most important part of introducing the protagonist was to show how it felt to be him – far more important than where he was, how he’d ended up there, and even why.

Illiterary Fiction : “Can You Introduce Characters in One Paragraph”?

That’s not any kind of challenge I gave myself, but after I had written the introduction, I discovered that the first paragraph indeed told us a lot about the protagonist:

The headlights of the cars intermix with the bright shop windows and flow in colorful rivers before his eyes. He’s waiting to cross the avenue, obeying the traffic light, mesmerized by the redness of the hand that orders him to stop. Or else what? He is too polite to discover. He’s also too polite to say anything to the teenagers making duckfaces while incessantly snapping photos with their cell phones.

Of course the full impact takes a few more paragraphs, but this first paragraph already places the protagonist in the context of being used to “playing by the book” – and suffering for it. At the same time, it also reveals the divide he will struggle with in the entire narrative: that between a sensitive, literary-minded as himself and the inane world around him.

The Perfect Gray : When It’s about Style

With The Perfect Gray , introducing a character is to some extent less about the character herself and more about the narrative style .

I sold my liberty today. The price was negotiated long and hard, though not by me. I was an active bystander, to be sure. Carefully and meticulously, with concentrated insouciance, I saw the men agreeing to the minute details of how that incorporeal concept was to be removed from my ghostly possession and be given to them, divided and chopped up according to their laws and whims.

My name is Hecate; it wasn’t chosen by me, but I’ve learned to like it. At the very least, I’ve become accustomed to it, reaching that cherished realization of passive acceptance. I’m neither young nor old – which would, I suppose, place me squarely in middle age, or what I’d like to think of as not-giving-a-shit age, if it weren’t a self-deluding lie.

I wrote The Perfect Gray with contradiction and conflict possessing central roles, also in the narrative style. I wanted the introduction to clearly reflect this.

Practical Tips on How to Introduce Characters

The main goal, as I said, is to introduce characters in a way that serves your particular authorial purposes. Obviously enough, the exact details will depend on that. But here’s a quick list for you to consider.

• What is the immediate thing you want to communicate about your character? A character might be brave or a coward, intelligent or dumb, practical or abstract, and plenty of other things. The more realistic a character , the more traits to consider. But you will need to prioritize and show the most crucial ones right away.
• Should you use dialogue or descriptions? Though there generally isn’t right or wrong in fiction, I find dialogue a problematic way of introducing a character. The reason is that dialogue with interjected prose (e.g. “he said and looked at Joe with anger in his eyes”) needs preexisting contextual information – I mean, how would you start a narrative using “he”, “Joe”, and “anger” in this example? Alternatively, you wouldn’t use any and opt for ambiguity, but that has its own problems – it would basically postpone introduction, delegating it to the prose following the dialogue.
• Is it, even about the character at all ? As The Perfect Gray example above indicates, sometimes it’s more about introducing the narrative . That is, you can choose to postpone showing who the character really is, to prioritize showing what the narrative feels like. Of course, in most cases these two go hand in hand – at least in character-based narratives.
• Ultimately, to which extent is it about art and to which about marketing ? This is a huge topic, so let’s take a look at it in its own section – which, fittingly perhaps, will also be the concluding one.

How to Introduce Characters: Problems and Gray Areas

The problems of introducing the characters of your novel boil down to the ever-present struggle that contaminates much of modern writing: Is it about art or sales ?

These two are mutually exclusive, remember. Art is about divergence, making uncomfortable, asking to think. Sales are about similarity/relatability, pleasing, asking to like. Of course, the vast majority of writers try to balance somewhere in the middle.

And so, introducing characters also must take that into consideration, too. There are plenty of intriguing ways to begin a story , but some of them will manipulate your readers into thinking a certain way about your characters that might not be compatible with the genre you’re writing in. Even deciding how to name your character affects all this.

To put it plainly, introducing your protagonist as unequivocally malevolent (or stupid, naive, etc), manipulating your readers so that they hate that character, only later to start revealing nuances and things-aren’t-that-simples is (potentially, of course) solid artistically and risky marketing/genre-wise.

Lionel Shriver is a great example of that, parenthetically. But for every Lionel Shriver, there is a vast number of writers who failed in attracting buyers (assuming that was their goal) because they alienated them with the very same style.

So, where do you draw the line between art and marketing, black and white? Where do you find “the perfect gray”, if that’s what you’re after?

There are no easy answers, I’m afraid. Only the author can provide tentative answers, subject to reevaluation.

I agree: only the author.

I don’t use a narrator in my WIP – deliberately.

But I do use some landmarks: you’ll see epigraphs, and a header with the pov character’s name and a time/date/location stamp before every scene.

From there on, you will start a scene knowing whose pov you’re in, and pick up details the character would notice or think about AS the character does it. Which I’m selective about, because stream of consciousness takes too long to write, slow down time as the reader tries to process it, and drives me crazy. I’m doing my utmost to let you channel the character, and get to that awareness as quickly as possible.

It may result in a VERY brief feeling of confusion as you wonder what’s going on in this scene, and why this character has the pov, a jarring note that (IMNVHO) disappears when reading further because you come to know what’s expected of you as a reader (note: NO ONE has complained – my readers are used to giving books a bit of suspension of judgement).

I CHOOSE to tell MY story this way. Those who like it get on with the program and let it roll over them, and actually like it (One of my reviewers said, “Alicia Ehrhardt takes the reader into the persons of Kary, Andrew and Bianca by turns, and uses this approach with consummate skill to construct characters whom one comes to know, dare I say this? rather better than one knows one’s spouse, or significant other. She does this better than any other author I have yet read. The plot is more than character-driven; there is a sense in which the plot is the characters.”) Nice of him, don’t you think?

This may not be THE way other writers do it, but I like it and it works for me and my readers, and my biggest job has been to be self-consistent in this choice.

We authors have to make these decisions for our own material. It’s MY ‘perfect gray.’

I’d say one of the signs of experience is precisely what you described: to deliberately ignore what the masses are doing and opt for what you feel is right. And overall, foregoing the attempt to please everyone (it can anyway only be an attempt, always destined to fail) and instead doing what you want and letting those who like it come to you is an artistic decision; it definitely has my vote!

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• Knowledge Base
• College essay

How to Write About Yourself in a College Essay | Examples

Published on September 21, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

An insightful college admissions essay requires deep self-reflection, authenticity, and a balance between confidence and vulnerability. Your essay shouldn’t just be a resume of your experiences; colleges are looking for a story that demonstrates your most important values and qualities.

To write about your achievements and qualities without sounding arrogant, use specific stories to illustrate them. You can also write about challenges you’ve faced or mistakes you’ve made to show vulnerability and personal growth.

Table of contents

Start with self-reflection, how to write about challenges and mistakes, how to write about your achievements and qualities, how to write about a cliché experience, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Before you start writing, spend some time reflecting to identify your values and qualities. You should do a comprehensive brainstorming session, but here are a few questions to get you started:

• What are three words your friends or family would use to describe you, and why would they choose them?
• Whom do you admire most and why?
• What are the top five things you are thankful for?
• What has inspired your hobbies or future goals?
• What are you most proud of? Ashamed of?

As you self-reflect, consider how your values and goals reflect your prospective university’s program and culture, and brainstorm stories that demonstrate the fit between the two.

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Writing about difficult experiences can be an effective way to show authenticity and create an emotional connection to the reader, but choose carefully which details to share, and aim to demonstrate how the experience helped you learn and grow.

Be vulnerable

It’s not necessary to have a tragic story or a huge confession. But you should openly share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences to evoke an emotional response from the reader. Even a cliché or mundane topic can be made interesting with honest reflection. This honesty is a preface to self-reflection and insight in the essay’s conclusion.

Don’t overshare

With difficult topics, you shouldn’t focus too much on negative aspects. Instead, use your challenging circumstances as a brief introduction to how you responded positively.

Share what you have learned

It’s okay to include your failure or mistakes in your essay if you include a lesson learned. After telling a descriptive, honest story, you should explain what you learned and how you applied it to your life.

While it’s good to sell your strengths, you also don’t want to come across as arrogant. Instead of just stating your extracurricular activities, achievements, or personal qualities, aim to discreetly incorporate them into your story.

Brag indirectly

Mention your extracurricular activities or awards in passing, not outright, to avoid sounding like you’re bragging from a resume.

Use stories to prove your qualities

Even if you don’t have any impressive academic achievements or extracurriculars, you can still demonstrate your academic or personal character. But you should use personal examples to provide proof. In other words, show evidence of your character instead of just telling.

Many high school students write about common topics such as sports, volunteer work, or their family. Your essay topic doesn’t have to be groundbreaking, but do try to include unexpected personal details and your authentic voice to make your essay stand out .

To find an original angle, try these techniques:

• Focus on a specific moment, and describe the scene using your five senses.
• Mention objects that have special significance to you.
• Instead of following a common story arc, include a surprising twist or insight.

Your unique voice can shed new perspective on a common human experience while also revealing your personality. When read out loud, the essay should sound like you are talking.

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

First, spend time reflecting on your core values and character . You can start with these questions:

However, you should do a comprehensive brainstorming session to fully understand your values. Also consider how your values and goals match your prospective university’s program and culture. Then, brainstorm stories that illustrate the fit between the two.

When writing about yourself , including difficult experiences or failures can be a great way to show vulnerability and authenticity, but be careful not to overshare, and focus on showing how you matured from the experience.

Through specific stories, you can weave your achievements and qualities into your essay so that it doesn’t seem like you’re bragging from a resume.

Include specific, personal details and use your authentic voice to shed a new perspective on a common human experience.

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How to Write an Essay Introduction (with Examples)   

The introduction of an essay plays a critical role in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. It sets the stage for the rest of the essay, establishes the tone and style, and motivates the reader to continue reading. 

Table of Contents

What is an essay introduction , what to include in an essay introduction, how to create an essay structure , step-by-step process for writing an essay introduction , how to write an introduction paragraph , how to write a hook for your essay , how to include background information , how to write a thesis statement .

• Argumentative Essay Introduction Example: 
• Expository Essay Introduction Example 

Literary Analysis Essay Introduction Example

Check and revise – checklist for essay introduction , key takeaways , frequently asked questions .

An introduction is the opening section of an essay, paper, or other written work. It introduces the topic and provides background information, context, and an overview of what the reader can expect from the rest of the work. 1 The key is to be concise and to the point, providing enough information to engage the reader without delving into excessive detail. 

The essay introduction is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire piece and provides the reader with a roadmap of what to expect. Here are key elements to include in your essay introduction: 

• Hook : Start with an attention-grabbing statement or question to engage the reader. This could be a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or a compelling anecdote. 
• Background information : Provide context and background information to help the reader understand the topic. This can include historical information, definitions of key terms, or an overview of the current state of affairs related to your topic. 
• Thesis statement : Clearly state your main argument or position on the topic. Your thesis should be concise and specific, providing a clear direction for your essay. 

Before we get into how to write an essay introduction, we need to know how it is structured. The structure of an essay is crucial for organizing your thoughts and presenting them clearly and logically. It is divided as follows: 2  

• Introduction:  The introduction should grab the reader’s attention with a hook, provide context, and include a thesis statement that presents the main argument or purpose of the essay.  
• Body:  The body should consist of focused paragraphs that support your thesis statement using evidence and analysis. Each paragraph should concentrate on a single central idea or argument and provide evidence, examples, or analysis to back it up.  
• Conclusion:  The conclusion should summarize the main points and restate the thesis differently. End with a final statement that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. Avoid new information or arguments. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to write an essay introduction: 

• Start with a Hook : Begin your introduction paragraph with an attention-grabbing statement, question, quote, or anecdote related to your topic. The hook should pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading. 
• Provide Background Information : This helps the reader understand the relevance and importance of the topic. 
• State Your Thesis Statement : The last sentence is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be clear, concise, and directly address the topic of your essay. 
• Preview the Main Points : This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and how you will support your thesis. 
• Keep it Concise and Clear : Avoid going into too much detail or including information not directly relevant to your topic. 
• Revise : Revise your introduction after you’ve written the rest of your essay to ensure it aligns with your final argument. 

Here’s an example of an essay introduction paragraph about the importance of education: 

Education is often viewed as a fundamental human right and a key social and economic development driver. As Nelson Mandela once famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” It is the key to unlocking a wide range of opportunities and benefits for individuals, societies, and nations. In today’s constantly evolving world, education has become even more critical. It has expanded beyond traditional classroom learning to include digital and remote learning, making education more accessible and convenient. This essay will delve into the importance of education in empowering individuals to achieve their dreams, improving societies by promoting social justice and equality, and driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce and promoting innovation. 

This introduction paragraph example includes a hook (the quote by Nelson Mandela), provides some background information on education, and states the thesis statement (the importance of education). 

This is one of the key steps in how to write an essay introduction. Crafting a compelling hook is vital because it sets the tone for your entire essay and determines whether your readers will stay interested. A good hook draws the reader in and sets the stage for the rest of your essay.  

• Avoid Dry Fact : Instead of simply stating a bland fact, try to make it engaging and relevant to your topic. For example, if you’re writing about the benefits of exercise, you could start with a startling statistic like, “Did you know that regular exercise can increase your lifespan by up to seven years?” 
• Avoid Using a Dictionary Definition : While definitions can be informative, they’re not always the most captivating way to start an essay. Instead, try to use a quote, anecdote, or provocative question to pique the reader’s interest. For instance, if you’re writing about freedom, you could begin with a quote from a famous freedom fighter or philosopher. 
• Do Not Just State a Fact That the Reader Already Knows : This ties back to the first point—your hook should surprise or intrigue the reader. For Here’s an introduction paragraph example, if you’re writing about climate change, you could start with a thought-provoking statement like, “Despite overwhelming evidence, many people still refuse to believe in the reality of climate change.” 

Including background information in the introduction section of your essay is important to provide context and establish the relevance of your topic. When writing the background information, you can follow these steps: 

• Start with a General Statement:  Begin with a general statement about the topic and gradually narrow it down to your specific focus. For example, when discussing the impact of social media, you can begin by making a broad statement about social media and its widespread use in today’s society, as follows: “Social media has become an integral part of modern life, with billions of users worldwide.” 
• Define Key Terms : Define any key terms or concepts that may be unfamiliar to your readers but are essential for understanding your argument. 
• Provide Relevant Statistics:  Use statistics or facts to highlight the significance of the issue you’re discussing. For instance, “According to a report by Statista, the number of social media users is expected to reach 4.41 billion by 2025.” 
• Discuss the Evolution:  Mention previous research or studies that have been conducted on the topic, especially those that are relevant to your argument. Mention key milestones or developments that have shaped its current impact. You can also outline some of the major effects of social media. For example, you can briefly describe how social media has evolved, including positives such as increased connectivity and issues like cyberbullying and privacy concerns. 
• Transition to Your Thesis:  Use the background information to lead into your thesis statement, which should clearly state the main argument or purpose of your essay. For example, “Given its pervasive influence, it is crucial to examine the impact of social media on mental health.” 

A thesis statement is a concise summary of the main point or claim of an essay, research paper, or other type of academic writing. It appears near the end of the introduction. Here’s how to write a thesis statement: 

• Identify the topic:  Start by identifying the topic of your essay. For example, if your essay is about the importance of exercise for overall health, your topic is “exercise.” 
• State your position:  Next, state your position or claim about the topic. This is the main argument or point you want to make. For example, if you believe that regular exercise is crucial for maintaining good health, your position could be: “Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health.” 
• Support your position:  Provide a brief overview of the reasons or evidence that support your position. These will be the main points of your essay. For example, if you’re writing an essay about the importance of exercise, you could mention the physical health benefits, mental health benefits, and the role of exercise in disease prevention. 
• Make it specific:  Ensure your thesis statement clearly states what you will discuss in your essay. For example, instead of saying, “Exercise is good for you,” you could say, “Regular exercise, including cardiovascular and strength training, can improve overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.” 

Examples of essay introduction 

Here are examples of essay introductions for different types of essays: 

Argumentative Essay Introduction Example:  

Topic: Should the voting age be lowered to 16? 

“The question of whether the voting age should be lowered to 16 has sparked nationwide debate. While some argue that 16-year-olds lack the requisite maturity and knowledge to make informed decisions, others argue that doing so would imbue young people with agency and give them a voice in shaping their future.” 

Expository Essay Introduction Example  

Topic: The benefits of regular exercise 

“In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of regular exercise cannot be overstated. From improving physical health to boosting mental well-being, the benefits of exercise are numerous and far-reaching. This essay will examine the various advantages of regular exercise and provide tips on incorporating it into your daily routine.” 

Text: “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee 

“Harper Lee’s novel, ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ is a timeless classic that explores themes of racism, injustice, and morality in the American South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, the reader is taken on a journey that challenges societal norms and forces characters to confront their prejudices. This essay will analyze the novel’s use of symbolism, character development, and narrative structure to uncover its deeper meaning and relevance to contemporary society.” 

• Engaging and Relevant First Sentence : The opening sentence captures the reader’s attention and relates directly to the topic. 
• Background Information : Enough background information is introduced to provide context for the thesis statement. 
• Definition of Important Terms : Key terms or concepts that might be unfamiliar to the audience or are central to the argument are defined. 
• Clear Thesis Statement : The thesis statement presents the main point or argument of the essay. 
• Relevance to Main Body : Everything in the introduction directly relates to and sets up the discussion in the main body of the essay. 

Writing a strong introduction is crucial for setting the tone and context of your essay. Here are the key takeaways for how to write essay introduction: 3  

• Hook the Reader : Start with an engaging hook to grab the reader’s attention. This could be a compelling question, a surprising fact, a relevant quote, or an anecdote. 
• Provide Background : Give a brief overview of the topic, setting the context and stage for the discussion. 
• Thesis Statement : State your thesis, which is the main argument or point of your essay. It should be concise, clear, and specific. 
• Preview the Structure : Outline the main points or arguments to help the reader understand the organization of your essay. 
• Keep it Concise : Avoid including unnecessary details or information not directly related to your thesis. 
• Revise and Edit : Revise your introduction to ensure clarity, coherence, and relevance. Check for grammar and spelling errors. 
• Seek Feedback : Get feedback from peers or instructors to improve your introduction further. 

The purpose of an essay introduction is to give an overview of the topic, context, and main ideas of the essay. It is meant to engage the reader, establish the tone for the rest of the essay, and introduce the thesis statement or central argument.  

An essay introduction typically ranges from 5-10% of the total word count. For example, in a 1,000-word essay, the introduction would be roughly 50-100 words. However, the length can vary depending on the complexity of the topic and the overall length of the essay.

An essay introduction is critical in engaging the reader and providing contextual information about the topic. To ensure its effectiveness, consider incorporating these key elements: a compelling hook, background information, a clear thesis statement, an outline of the essay’s scope, a smooth transition to the body, and optional signposting sentences.  

The process of writing an essay introduction is not necessarily straightforward, but there are several strategies that can be employed to achieve this end. When experiencing difficulty initiating the process, consider the following techniques: begin with an anecdote, a quotation, an image, a question, or a startling fact to pique the reader’s interest. It may also be helpful to consider the five W’s of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, and how.   For instance, an anecdotal opening could be structured as follows: “As I ascended the stage, momentarily blinded by the intense lights, I could sense the weight of a hundred eyes upon me, anticipating my next move. The topic of discussion was climate change, a subject I was passionate about, and it was my first public speaking event. Little did I know , that pivotal moment would not only alter my perspective but also chart my life’s course.” 

Crafting a compelling thesis statement for your introduction paragraph is crucial to grab your reader’s attention. To achieve this, avoid using overused phrases such as “In this paper, I will write about” or “I will focus on” as they lack originality. Instead, strive to engage your reader by substantiating your stance or proposition with a “so what” clause. While writing your thesis statement, aim to be precise, succinct, and clear in conveying your main argument.  

To create an effective essay introduction, ensure it is clear, engaging, relevant, and contains a concise thesis statement. It should transition smoothly into the essay and be long enough to cover necessary points but not become overwhelming. Seek feedback from peers or instructors to assess its effectiveness. 

References  

• Cui, L. (2022). Unit 6 Essay Introduction.  Building Academic Writing Skills . 
• West, H., Malcolm, G., Keywood, S., & Hill, J. (2019). Writing a successful essay.  Journal of Geography in Higher Education ,  43 (4), 609-617. 
• Beavers, M. E., Thoune, D. L., & McBeth, M. (2023). Bibliographic Essay: Reading, Researching, Teaching, and Writing with Hooks: A Queer Literacy Sponsorship. College English, 85(3), 230-242. 

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Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

How to Write an Effective Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — Romeo and Juliet — Foil Characters In Romeo And Juliet

Foil Characters in Romeo and Juliet

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Published: Mar 19, 2024

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I. introduction, ii. foil characters in romeo and juliet, iii. the role of foil characters in developing themes, a. mercutio and benvolio, b. tybalt and paris, a. love and hate, b. fate and free will.

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How to Introduce Yourself in an Email: 15 Examples + 5 Tips

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Networking is essential to progress in your professional life. So, how to introduce yourself in an email ? 🤔

A good presentation can help you grow your business, build your personal brand and, ultimately, leave a good impression on everyone you communicate with.

In this article, we share 5 designs with you, along with tips on how to shine with your customers, colleagues, etc.! ✨

What is an introductory mail?

An introductory email is used to share your information with other people, prospects, new customers , etc. 👀

For example, you can use it if you’ve just taken on a new role, so you’ll have a new boss and new colleagues. 🔗 Also, if you’ll want to expand your network and make professional and personal contacts.

Basically, an introductory email is used to establish contacts . 🤝

An introductory e-mail is essential for getting the word out about your company. It’s also a great way to do networking .

We know, building a strong network, will give you a big boost. 👍

Introduction Email Sample

Here’s an introduction email sample that will surely captivate your recipients. 😏

That’s great! But how do you write a professional e-mail ? 🧐

Here are 15 email introduction examples to inspire you.

15 Email Introduction Examples

How to write an introductory email to a client? If you want to be more sociable, build relationships and generally be a nicer person, then introductory emails are for you. 😉

There’s nothing wrong with a little courtesy, on the contrary!

Let’s find out about its examples for every day and professional life. 👇

1. How to introduce yourself in an email to clients?

The above example is suitable for high-value clients who expect personalized service . 🥰 This customer introduction email is perfect for sending to many customers. 👉 The aim is to share your contact details, ensure continuity of the relationship and build customer loyalty . Dear [name of recipient], I’d like to take this opportunity to introduce myself as a new representative of [company name]. I have recently joined the team as [position] and will now be responsible for all of your account needs. Please know that I am committed to providing the same level of personalized service and attention to detail that you have always experienced at [Company Name]. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly at [phone number] or email me at [email address]. Thank you for your support, I look forward to working together. Sincerely, [your name]. ————————————— Subject: New opportunities and continued success for [company name] Dear [Customer name], I hope this message finds you well. My name is [your name] and I recently accepted the role of [your title] here at [company name]. I would like to introduce myself and let you know that I am excited about the opportunity to work with you and [client company name]. [Company Name] values ​​our partnership with [Customer Company Name] and is committed to continuing our successful collaboration. We look forward to learning more about your business goals and discussing how we can support your goals in the future. Please contact me at any time to arrange a phone call or meeting. I would like to network and explore new opportunities to grow the company together. Thank you very much for your continued trust in [company name]. I look forward to our collaboration. Best regards, [your name]. —————————————– Subject: Welcome from [your name] – new contact for [company name] Hello [Customer Name], I hope you’re doing well. My name is [your name]. I would like to introduce myself as the new contact at [company name] and assume your role in [your job title]. I am taking over from [name of previous contact] who has taken on a new role within the company. I am honored to serve in this role, and I am very much looking forward to building a strong and successful relationship with you and [Client Company Name]. I am here to ensure that your experience with our services/products continues to exceed your expectations. I would love to discuss your current and future needs and how we can best serve you. Please call or arrange an appointment as soon as possible. Thank you for partnering with [Company Name]. I am excited about the journey ahead and the successes we can achieve together. Best wishes, [your name].

2. Introductory e-mails to a new customer

If you’re a new account manager, customer relationship manager or have direct contact with customers. 👂

This example gives an introduction about you and explains your role. 👉 The purpose of this email is to provide a professional introduction, but also to reassure the customer that this won’t affect their business. Dear [name of recipient], I am writing this e-mail to introduce myself as the new Account Manager/Customer Relationship Manager [or applicable role] for your account. I would like to take this opportunity to briefly explain the areas in which I am responsible: [Briefly explain the main areas of responsibility] Looking forward to hearing from you , I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth and successful collaboration. I’d be thrilled to hear from you soon. Thank you for your attention. Sincerely, [your name]. —————————————— Subject: Welcome to [Company Name] – Let’s get started! Dear [Customer name], Welcome to [Company Name]! My name is [Your Name]. We are excited to have you as our main point of contact as you embark on this new journey with us. Our team strives to provide [a brief description of our services/products] with the aim of providing [a brief description of how our services/products can benefit our customers]. In order to help you make the most of our services/products, we would like to arrange a welcome call. This gives us the opportunity to better understand your needs and tailor support to your goals. Please let us know your convenient time. I will arrange everything. If you need any clarification, please feel free to contact us. Thank you for choosing [Company Name]. We look forward to working together and supporting your success. I would like to extend my warmest greetings. [your name] ————————————— Subject: A new adventure with [company name] begins! Hello [Customer Name], The whole team would like to extend a warm welcome to you. I am [your name], your dedicated [your job title], and I will make sure you have a great experience with our [service/product]. At [Company Name], we believe in [Company Core Values] and are committed to supporting our customers every step of the way. We can help you with [a brief description of the solution or benefits offered]. We would like to start by having a short conversation to discuss your goals and how we can best help you achieve them. This is also a good opportunity to ask questions. Please let us know your availability for a brief introduction. If you are in a hurry, please feel free to contact us directly. We look forward to a fruitful partnership and will warmly welcome you again. Best regards, [your name]

3. Presentation mails for a new company or boss

On the other hand, you need to be more formal when sending messages to your new company or a boss. 🤠 The focus is on your professional abilities , sales skills and commitment rather than your personality. 💪 Show that you’re there to do the job! Dear [name of recipient], I’m writing this email to introduce myself as your new [position] and express my determination to help the team achieve its goals. With over 10 years of experience in [a related field], I will bring strong skills and abilities that will contribute to the company’s success. I look forward to working closely with you and the rest of the team. If you would like us to prioritize a particular project or task, please contact me. I’m sure we’ll be able to achieve great things together. Thank you for this opportunity. Sincerely, [your name]. ————————————— Subject: Exciting News: Introducing [New Company Name] – The Beginning of a New Chapter Dear [recipient name], I hope this email cheers you up. We would like to introduce [New Company Name], a company that is committed to providing innovative solutions and unparalleled services in the [Industry/Field] field. My name is [your name] and I am honored to serve in [your position] at [new company name]. [New company name] has a mission of [concisely stating core values ​​such as innovation and customer satisfaction], and is based on the philosophy of [statement of mission and goals]. I would love to discuss how [new company name] can work with you to achieve your goals. Please contact me directly to learn more about our services and how we can contribute to your success. Thank you for considering [new company name] as a partner. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration. I would like to extend my warmest greetings, [your name]. —————————————— Subject: Welcome [new manager’s name], new [job title] at [company name] Dear [recipient name], I hope this email finds you well. I am very pleased to introduce [new manager’s name] who recently joined [company name] in a new [position]. [New boss’s name] brings a wealth of experience in [briefly describing his background or expertise] and a visionary approach to leadership. [New Manager’s Name] is excited to lead the team to new heights and will strive to improve our services/products to meet and exceed our customers’ expectations. [He/She/They] is interested in building strong relationships with customers and stakeholders and looks forward to connecting with you. Please welcome [new boss’s name] to [company name]. [He/She/They] intends to contact you in the coming days to introduce himself and discuss how we can continue to successfully work together. Thank you for your continued support and partnership with [Company Name]. We are excited about this new chapter and the positive changes it will bring. Best, [your name].

4. Introductory e-mail to new business contact

A cold mail is a mail you send to someone you don’t know. 🔍 For example, it could be a potential customer you want to connect with, a new contact who might be interested in your services, or a company you would like to contact for business. 🗣️ This sample email shows you how to connect and introduce yourself to someone you’ve never met before. 👋 Dear [name of recipient], I am contacting you to introduce myself and to tell you that I have recently heard of your company and am impressed by your work in [industry/specific field]. As a professional with extensive experience in [ strategic business unit ], I believe there is potential for cooperation and mutually beneficial opportunities between our organizations. If you have a few minutes, I’d like to arrange a call or meeting to discuss this further. Please let me know if you are available for a brief conversation. Sincerely, [your name]. ————————————— Subject: Introducing [your name]: Explore new possibilities together Dear [recipient name], I hope this email resonates with you. My name is [your name] and I recently joined [company name] as [your title]. If you require any further assistance, requests, or opportunities to discuss anything related to our [product/service], I would be happy to introduce you to me as your new contact. Drawing from my background in [your career/industry], I have a passion for delivering value and excellence on projects. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and explore ways to achieve mutual success. Thank you for your continued partnership with [Company Name]. I’m excited about the possibilities of our collaboration. Best wishes, [your name] —————————————— Subject: A new beginning: How [your name] met [recipient’s name] Hello [recipient name], I believe this message will lead you to success. My name is [your name], my most recent [your title] at [company name]. We would be happy to introduce you as someone who shares a strong interest in [specific interest or field relevant to the recipient]. Having recently begun my journey with [Company Name], my goal is to build meaningful connections and explore synergies between our professional endeavors. We believe that by working together and sharing insights, we can achieve great results. I’m really looking forward to the possibility that our paths may cross, whether it’s an industry event, a joint project, or just a coffee chat to exchange ideas. Please contact us at [your email address] or call us directly at [your phone number]. I look forward to learning more about your work and discussing potential collaboration opportunities. I wish you continued success, [your name].

5. Emails to introduce yourself to new colleagues

Finally, we know that your first day in a new job can be nerve-wracking. 🙈 This sample introduction email will help you make friends from day one. With this email, you can introduce yourself , explain who you are and end with a “call-to-action” to establish a connection. 👌 Dear [name of recipient], I’m writing this email to introduce myself as the new member of the team. My name is [your name] and I’m delighted to be joining [company name]. I’ll be taking on the new role of [your job title], and I’m looking forward to working with you and getting to know you better. If you need any help or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, [your name]. ——————————————- Subject: [Your Name], Greetings from your new [Position] Dear team, I hope this message finds you well. My name is [your name]. I’m excited to join [company name] in the new role of [your position]. I look forward to using your background in [your background/industry/specialty] to contribute to our projects and learn from you. I am passionate about [some of your professional interests] and believe in [core values ​​or principles you value]. I look forward to bringing my experience and enthusiasm to the team and working towards our common goals. You can always contact me for collaborations, questions, virtual coffee chats, etc. I look forward to getting to know you and becoming an integral part of our team’s success. Warm regards, [your name]. —————————————— Subject: Hello from [your name], new member of [department/team name]. Hi guys, My name is [your name]. I’m a new addition to [department/team name] here at [company name] as a new [your position]. I have an extensive background in [your career] and am interested in leveraging my skills and knowledge to contribute to our mutual success. Outside of work, I like to [briefly mention my hobbies and interests] and am always open to discussions about [topics that interest me]. I look forward to seeing you in the break room, via Zoom, or via email. Please feel free to write me a message or call me at [your phone number]. Let’s make the most of collaboration and achieve great things together! Best wishes, [your name].

5 Tips for introducing yourself in a professional e-mail

At this point, you should know what a presentation email is thanks to the examples we’ve seen previously. 💡 Now we’re going to help you understand how to write the best presentation emails.

Check out these 5 useful tips for creating presentation emails that stand out from the crowd. 🌈

1. Think of the subject line

The first step to take before writing an introductory email is to pay attention to the subject line . 🧐

It would be a real shame if your message ended up in the recipient’s spam folder. 🗑️ When you send an emailing campaign , your aim is to grab the attention of each recipient as soon as they read the subject line.

Therefore, when writing the email subject line , avoid using overly boring formats such as “Introductory email”. 😴

On the other hand, familiarity is not recommended. Choose a subject line such as “It’s my first day!” or “Nice to meet you by email”. ⚡

2. Present your role in the company

The next step is a professional presentation . 🥸 Don’t address your interlocutor with ready-made phrases such as “Madam, Sir”.

Instead, say “Dear (name of recipient)” or “Hello to the whole (department) team”. 👉 If it’s your first day , the first line of your e-mail should include the date you joined the company.

Also include information about your position, role, and responsibilities. 💼 Show that you’re ready for a new challenge!

However, if it’s your last day, here’s how to write a good professional goodbye message . 😥

3. Take care with the tone of your writing

As we saw in the follow-up emails , adopt a polite and consistent tone to make an effective professional presentation. 🌟

Some companies use a more or less formal tone (at Waalaxy , we like to be on first-name terms). 👽

Take inspiration from the style of their website, blog, or LinkedIn posts. By doing this little research, you’ll know what tone to use to better reflect their values. 🪞

4. Show your personality

Talk about yourself! 📣 Don’t limit yourself to your skills and experience . Let your personality shine through.

Note that this is not about displaying your whole life, but about finding a balance between your professional and personal life. ⚖️

Try to put yourself in your interlocutor’ s shoes. How can you pique their interest with this e-mail?

Talk a little about your hobbies, your interests, what you like most… 🍔 If you like burgers, you can ask where the best local restaurant is, for example.

It’s the perfect way to get to know your new colleagues ! 🤗

5. Don’t forget to use polite expressions

Finally, use polite formulas 🪶 when writing your introductory e-mail.

Here again, avoid overly formal expressions like the infamous “Please accept, Madam, Sir, my distinguished greetings”. 🙄

At the end of your e-mail , say that you’re excited to meet the people involved. As you can see, the aim of this email is to create a warm, friendly atmosphere. 🥰

Remember, your message needs to stand out. 🤩 These tips will also work if you’re looking for a way to write a professional thank-you email .

Conclusion: How to introduce yourself in an email?

In this article, we’ve shared five examples of presentation emails and five tips for making them a success! 🚀

Learning how to introduce yourself by e-mail is an excellent skill to master to advance your career and make new connections. ✌️

Above all, be positive, inspire others with your personality, always write professionally and proofread before sending . 👀

Now you know how to start an e-mail in any professional situation.

Read our article on email signatures to finish on a high note! 💅

Article FAQ

What should the subject line be in a presentation email.

A good subject line for a presentation email should be clear and concise. 🧊

For example, the subject line for an e-mail to a prospect needs to be informative and at the same time entice them to click. How can we do this? 👇 By using types of questions to ask a customer , like this one:

“Need to hire a developer? I’m here!” 🔔

What’s the difference between a cover letter and a motivation letter?

A cover letter is used in some cases to complement a CV and focuses on the candidate’s experiences, it is generally used to apply for a job offer 😀

Unlike a motivation letter , which can be used to better understand the candidate’s motivations once hired, or to introduce yourself to new clients/colleagues.

That’s all there is to it! You know all about the how to introduce yourself in an email . 🎩

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