Good character conflict is not constant arguing. It is pressure that makes two reasonable needs difficult to satisfy at the same time. Use this template to create a problem that other characters can enter, influence, or complicate.
The Six-Part Conflict Template
- Goal: What concrete result does the character want right now?
- Reason: Why does it matter personally rather than abstractly?
- Obstacle: What person, rule, resource limit, or truth blocks the easy route?
- Opposing value: What principle would the character damage by taking the fastest solution?
- Choice: Which two imperfect options are visible?
- Invitation: What can another character offer, refuse, reveal, or demand?
Example: The Locked Archive
An apprentice needs a sealed map before sunrise because a missing sibling followed the route it describes. The archive keeper will open the vault only if the apprentice identifies who copied a forbidden text. Telling the truth may rescue the sibling but destroy a friend. Stealing the map protects the friend but makes the apprentice a suspect. A partner can provide an alibi, negotiate with the keeper, expose a third option, or insist that one relationship matters more.
Conflict Quality Check
- Can the problem be understood without reading the character's entire biography?
- Does more than one response make emotional sense?
- Can another character affect the outcome?
- Will either decision change a relationship, resource, reputation, or future option?
Avoid conflicts solved by one hidden power, a sudden coincidence, or a decision already made outside the scene. Record the goal, limit, and invitation in a shareable character starter template so potential partners can immediately see where they fit.
