Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Macbeth, these are just some of Shakespeare’s most notable works. We have grown to love not only the story but also the characters because of how they were developed. The secret is simple, make a mind map to explore the characters. Here, we have Character Mind Map Templates in Word that you can use for character analysis and development. These ready-made products are professionally designed yet easily editable to save you the stress. Simply download one and add your content in the spaces provided. Start working on your story’s characters, subscribe to our creative templates today!
How to Design a Character Mind Map in Microsoft Word
Good characters are important in a story. According to the Thanet Writers, the story won’t hold together without believable characters. If you’re writing a story and doing character analysis, do it through a mind map. Refer to the list below to learn how to make one in Microsoft Word.
1. Identify the Central Idea
Mind maps are about exploring main ideas through a spiderweb-like diagram. In the center of the diagram is the main idea of your design mind map, which in this case is the story’s character. Write the full name of the character along with his or her other basic information.
2. Make a List of the Character’s Traits or Personalities
To start delving into the character, write a simple list of his or her traits or personalities. What is the character normally like? Aside from the traits, also provide details about the character’s interests, relationships, strengths, weaknesses, and other complex details. These details will build up the branches that surround the central idea.
3. Expand the Character Further through Branches and Sub-branches
Speaking of branching out, now’s the time to start adding the character’s traits by writing them inside shapes and connecting them to the central idea. Refer to your list of traits and personalities for this. And if you need to expand some traits, add sub-branches to them. When creating characters, it’s best to know them thoroughly to support whatever actions they take in the story.
4. Ensure Consistency in the Character’s Traits
When adding too many character descriptions, there’s a chance that some of their qualities may contradict. To prevent confusing audiences and promote proper character development, make sure that there’s consistency in his or her traits.
5. Enhance the Mind Map Using Colors
As much as you want your character to be interesting, you should do the same for your development mind map. Make the diagram appealing, by adding simple colors to the design. Also, it would help the branches stand out even more if you add distinguishing colors into them.
