The Free Original Character (OC) Template for Google Docs provides a structured framework for developing and organizing detailed characters. Designed for writers, role-playing enthusiasts, and world-builders, this template simplifies the character creation process with pre-filled sample text and customizable sections.
Key Features:
- Basic Information – Record essential details like name, age, species, and gender.
- Personality Traits – Define character strengths, weaknesses, and quirks.
- Background & Backstory – Outline key life events, upbringing, and history.
- Skills & Abilities – Document talents, powers, or unique professions.
- Relationships – Track connections with family, allies, and rivals.
- Goals & Ambitions – Establish character motivations and long-term objectives.
- Pre-Filled Sample Text – Provides guidance while allowing full customization.
- Google Docs Format – Easily editable, accessible, and shareable across devices.
Ideal for storytelling, world-building, and role-playing, this template ensures a smooth and structured character development process.
Format: Google Slides
Contributed by: Alex Janovich
How to Download and Use the Template
Getting started with Google Docs templates is quick and simple:
- Click the Download Template button.
- When the template opens, click the Use Template button at the top of the page.
- Make sure you're signed into your Google account, as it's required to save and edit the template.
With just a few clicks, you'll have a ready-to-use, customizable template at your fingertips!
Ultimate Guide to Creating a Compelling Original Character (OC)
Developing a well-rounded original character (OC) is an essential step for writers, role-players, and artists. A strong character can make stories immersive, role-playing engaging, and world-building more believable. Whether you're crafting an OC for a novel, a tabletop RPG, or an online community, these expert tips will help bring your character to life.
1. Start with the Basics
Before diving into complex details, define your character’s core identity:
- Full Name & Nicknames – Names carry meaning and personality.
- Age & Birthplace – A character’s past shapes their present.
- Gender & Pronouns – Identity adds depth to interactions.
- Species & Physical Traits – Human, elf, android? What makes them unique?
- Occupation & Role in the Story – What do they do, and why does it matter?
👉 Pro Tip: If you're struggling with a name, use name generators or look up historical meanings to find one that fits their personality.
2. Craft a Distinct Personality
Your OC should feel real—flawed, dynamic, and memorable. Consider:
- Strengths & Weaknesses – Nobody is perfect; balance their skills with challenges.
- Hobbies & Interests – What do they love? What do they despise?
- Fears & Phobias – Small details, like a fear of deep water, can add realism.
- Mannerisms & Speech Patterns – Do they stutter, use slang, or have a signature phrase?
👉 Pro Tip: Use personality frameworks (like MBTI or Enneagram types) to refine their traits.
3. Develop a Meaningful Backstory
A well-developed history makes characters feel believable. Answer questions like:
- Where did they grow up? (A wealthy city? A war-torn village?)
- Who influenced them? (Mentors, friends, rivals, or family?)
- What major events shaped them? (Tragedies? Triumphs?)
👉 Pro Tip: Write a short "day in the life" scene for your OC to explore how they act in daily situations.
4. Build Relationships & Motivations
Characters don’t exist in a vacuum. They connect with others in different ways:
- Allies & Friends – Who supports them?
- Rivals & Enemies – Who challenges them?
- Romantic Interests – Love, crushes, or heartbreaks?
- Personal Goals – What drives them forward?
👉 Pro Tip: Think of conflicting motivations—maybe they want power but fear responsibility.
5. Make Their Design Memorable
If your OC has a visual element (for art, roleplay, or writing), consider:
- Color Symbolism – Colors evoke emotion (red = passion, blue = calm).
- Unique Features – Scars, tattoos, eye color?
- Clothing Style – Do they dress practically or flamboyantly?
👉 Pro Tip: Use Pinterest to create a mood board of visuals that inspire your OC’s look.
6. Avoid Clichés & Overpowered Characters
Great OCs feel real, not invincible. Avoid:
❌ Mary Sues/Gary Stus – Perfect characters with no flaws.
❌ Overpowered Abilities – Skills should be earned, not limitless.
❌ One-Dimensional Traits – "Mysterious" isn’t a personality.
👉 Pro Tip: Give your character a vulnerability — something they struggle with or fear.
7. Bring Them to Life Through Writing or Roleplay
To truly develop your OC:
✔ Write short stories about them in different situations.
✔ Role-play in communities to test their personality.
✔ Get feedback from fellow creators to refine them.
