This is a request from my Instagram, initially published March 27, 2023. All ideas expressed are personal opinions based on my experience as a writer. Thanks for reading!
A problem that every writer runs into at some point: My character is smarter than me. What do I do?
First, research and define the parameters of their intelligence.
What does “smart” mean for them?
Do they have common sense? Good survival instincts? Vast knowledge in a specific area?
Are they a fast learner? A problem-solver? Well-educated? Do they have book smarts but little common sense, or are they not traditionally intelligent with a sharp intuition?
People are “smart” in numerous ways, so it’s good to start by deciding what that means.
Second, find out what your character’s “smartness” looks like.
Talk to people who fit their criteria, browse forums and sites dedicated to their area(s) of expertise, look into scholarly articles, etc.
The best way to accurately depict a subject is to learn about it. Don’t stress about uncovering every nuance, but getting a solid grasp of the basic concepts will make your character’s intelligence believable.
When in doubt, skip the exposition!
“She explained [xyz],” “He began working” and so on.
You don’t need to fill paragraphs upon paragraphs with jargon and explanations; you’re writing a fiction piece, not a textbook.
You can paraphrase, shorten, or even skip altogether, and, as long as you convey the basic ideas, most audiences will know what you’re getting at.
Avoid overly complex language.
Smart people don’t always speak in convoluted riddles. Often, someone with a true understanding of a subject will be able to communicate it in layman’s terms.
Just make it up!
The great thing about fiction is that, if you create the rules of your world, you can give your character knowledge of those rules and demonstrate their intelligence there.
Find ways to demonstrate the character’s intelligence.
Give your character agency and opinions, and find appropriate times for their capabilities to shine through.
A common trap writers fall into is using the “smart” character as a mouthpiece for exposition dumping, and the easiest way to circumvent this is by letting them be their own character. Give them flaws and goals and thoughts of their own.
Thank you for reading! Remember, it’s okay to use a combination of strategies, or make your own!
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