Make sure your main character isn't too passive

Your protagonist’s job isn’t to sit back and watch the action happen — that’s your reader’s job.

Editor Tiffany Yates Martin has identified a few common characterizations that can result in your hero being too passive.

If you recognize your character in any of those, she says, ask yourself whether you can connect a line between the character’s actions and the plot.

In the event that you can’t, Martin has suggestions for how to revise and empower that protagonist.

Her advice on ensuring your main character has enough agency to propel your story is over at Jane Friedman's blog.

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