Things to include in a character profile? Help?

[Alberic of Krufton]

I like the idea of writing mini biographies or character sketches more than lists filled with mostly irrelevant information. ninja Past experiences, motivations, things that can affect their actions throughout the course of the story...

Usually I just write, though, and "discover" the character as I go. Generally I at least have a vague notion, or a sketch I've drawn that can help give me ideas with notes jotted on the side. (Y'know, things like approximate age, where they're from, that they hate snakes, et cetera.)

In short stories, at least, it doesn't matter if a character loves pistachio ice cream and is the youngest of six siblings if the story's about solving a murder, and ice cream and that they were the baby of the family have nothing to do with anything.

Unless there's a scene involving an ice cream shop and a meeting between the character and one of the older sisters who still dotes on him.

[DarknessofHeavenandDreams]

Hiei the Epic

most established writers use profiles with notes. to not do such seems a bit unintelligent in my view.

I've seen no proof of the former or a good argument for the latter. I'd like to, if you have any.

[Hiei the Epic]

DarknessofHeavenandDreams

Hiei the Epic

most established writers use profiles with notes. to not do such seems a bit unintelligent in my view.

I've seen no proof of the former or a good argument for the latter. I'd like to, if you have any.

read Stephen King's book, On Writing.

[I_Write_Ivre]

Hiei the Epic

DarknessofHeavenandDreams

Hiei the Epic

most established writers use profiles with notes. to not do such seems a bit unintelligent in my view.

I've seen no proof of the former or a good argument for the latter. I'd like to, if you have any.

read Stephen King's book, On Writing.

That doesn't either of those. Also, I don't read Stephen King; he sucks. I'm not taking advice from him.