Where do you get your inspiration from?

Yes. I do develop my characters as I write. I usually start with some kind of generic archetype like "the tragic lover" or "the suave rogue." I like to start with archetypes because they are very universal. You can fit them anywhere in any genre and they describe in one word the role the character will take. From there, I try and figure out how their world would have shaped them. This not only creates the basis for my character's back story, but it also establishes the three pillars of good character development: Goals, motives and conflicts.

From there, their personalities sort of form. Because we all are formed by the trials and experiences we face.

 

My MC is pretty much me. Me if my life had gone in a very chaotic direction, but me nonetheless. At least I know him well.

 

I have two types of characters, created and discovered.

When I create a character, it has a planned impact on the plot. I generally get the inspiration for a character as a single scene in my head. Firstly, I write down their goal, secondly I write certain main character traits. I normally let them write themselves. Oftentimes I have to go back and work on their voice, but I try to do as little planning as I can.

I spend less time on my discovered characters. These are usually less important characters and I try to let their role flow more naturally.

Whenever I add a new character, I create a small bio page for them, updating it as the plot affects them. This gives me a reference to look back on when needed. Depending on how many characters you write, this may or may not be necessary for your book.