Thread:OmegaDragonite/@comment-18812574-20150101160850/@comment-18812574-20150102055300

Uh well,

The focus is on quality, not quantity. It's better to have a character that specializes in one or two things instead dumping a bunch of random powers on them. These are fourth seats, afterall. So while the power section does need to be unique, detailed, and well thought-out, I would say that it isn't the main focus of the exam. The main focus is on character.

Personally, I usually always start with the history section. To make a grounded, realistic, and empathetic character you've got to give them a backstory that is impactful and makes sense. "It's the miles that make the man," and everything that your character is now should reflect who they once were. This should tie-in to the personality section. Whatever you do for that particular section, don't just give a laundry list of traits. Explain why they are that way to begin with. Adding details that reflect the history is a big plus, in my opinion.

Anyway, hope that helps. Quality is key. If you are stuck I would also recommend going to traditional (ie, for novels, movies, etc.) character writing articles, there are a million out there, and they are a big help when it comes to the nuts and bolts of character. The biggest thing is to get us, the reader, inside your character's head. The way the tick, and why they are they way they are. There shouldn't be anything out of place, everything should make sense and fit the character, like a glove. Age old writing advice: show, don't tell. Avoid bland descriptions and obvious details, highlight what is important to THIS character. Make it dynamic, specific, original.

That and good luck!