Scriptwriting Character Development

Question 1

What term describes a character's deepest desire that drives the entire story?

Accepted Answer

Want

Answer

A character's 'want' is the conscious goal they pursue throughout the story.

Question 2

In screenwriting, what is a character's 'wound'?

Accepted Answer

A past trauma that shapes their behavior

Answer

A character wound is a past traumatic event that influences the character's fears, flaws, and motivations.

Question 3

What is the difference between a character's 'want' and their 'need' in scriptwriting?

Accepted Answer

Want is conscious; need is what they must learn for growth

Answer

The want is what the character consciously pursues, while the need is the deeper truth or change required for their growth.

Question 4

Which of the following best defines a 'character arc'?

Accepted Answer

The internal transformation a character undergoes by story's end

Answer

A character arc describes the internal change—emotional, moral, or psychological—a character experiences throughout the story.

Question 5

What is a 'flat character' in the context of screenplay writing?

Accepted Answer

A character who does not change or develop throughout the story

Answer

A flat character remains essentially the same throughout the narrative, showing little to no internal growth.

Scriptwriting Practice Test