Character Naming Techniques

Some characters are just naturally likeable. Take Tris Prior from Divergent for example, her name is very cunning and it just draws you in to Tris. Of course, Tris is a nickname for Beatrice.

But that's the point! Great character names are usually unique nicknames we find interesting. Some names are more attractive and alluring than others, but some are also fun and outgoing. You can usually tell how a character is like from their name, unless you're reading a book about a goth girl named Sunshine.

Nicknames can be great sometimes! Like Genevieve can be Jen or Gen, and Cassandra can be Sandy or something.

But not all nicknames will work out perfectly. Take Evelyn for example. Evie? Lyn? Nah… doesn't sound right. But Will for William? Quite original, will do.

Well, how about last names? Surnames can be vitally important, since you'll have to find one that fits your character's first name. If you're writing a fantasy or sci-fi novel, you won't have to worry as much. Often sci-fi, fantasy, or sometimes even dystopian stories have characters with extremely rare, unique, or even made-up last names. This will show your inner creativity through the words that you write!

So… all you have to do now is to avoid something. That is, you have to avoid commonly used names. NEVER use the surname Smith unless absolutely necessary or as a temporary surname. Naming you're character Bobby Smith will scream "newbie writer!" Even amateurs could do better than that! Be creative and don't be afraid to think outside the box.

What makes a good character name anyways? For a fantasy novel, you might use a name like Sunset Dawn or something. Perfectly fine, but don't you think you could change it up a bit? What about Sunset Moon, or Dawn Sunset? Be unique in all things important to your story and draw inspiration from others. Remember, you can't be a writer if you're not a reader.

In conclusion, names are what make your characters besides their personality and appearance. If your reader doesn't like a character's name, they might as well give up on the character himself! Remember to always use your creativity and let it shine in your writing.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today