One of the trickiest concepts for beginning writers to master is character motivation.
On the surface, it’s easy. Generally, your character wants to be successful, whether that means finding romance, achieving wealth, or slaying a dragon. Writers usually grasp the layer beneath the outer goal, which is why your character wants what he wants. Your protagonist is lonely, grew up poor, or wants revenge on a dragon.
In other words, we understand what our characters want and can describe the physical manifestation of that want. But goals aren’t the same as motivation, and understanding that layer means digging a little deeper. Why is your character lonely and why does he see a romantic relationship as the solution? What affect did growing up poor have on your heroine? Why does your would-be dragonslayer seek revenge, rather than a safer place to live? Developing your characters’ back stories and emotional scars will give you some clues to their motivation.
With an understanding of motivation, you can better describe your characters’ choices and actions. To look at this from another angle, consider your character’s intention. Why do they choose one action over another?
When your dragon appears, does your hero immediately move to the attack? Consider his intention here. Does he want to protect his family or gain esteem as a hero? Your protagonist’s choices – and their repercussions – may change depending on which intention is in the driver’s seat.
As you work through your scenes – especially if you are stuck – inquire about your character’s intentions at that moment. You need a goal for each scene, but beneath that, look for what your hero needs emotionally. When they reach for a snack, are they hungry or just bored?