S13E9 - All Characters Feel the Same

Diagnosing problems in writing can be one of the most difficult tasks for any author. The creators are most often blinded to their own shortcomings. Readers may notice when something is awkward or boring while the author thinks it's one of the more interesting excerpts. The August series is dedicated to diagnosing these problems, from continuity errors to gaps in logic the readers will inevitably question.

There is a strong argument for a character-driven story. Plot is essential, but without relatable and developed characters, a story will always fall flat. That problem is compounded if all characters act or talk in the same way. Leigh and Ley discuss in this episode ways to identify when characters are too similar and various ways to fix it, from combining them to creating more conflict.

First aired August 31, 2020.