The number of characters to use all depends on the nature of the play. Some scenes require more characters than others, but it is well to limit your cast to a few principal or leading characters. Avoid unnecessary characters.

The leading characters should appear as early in the play as can be arranged. As your story will often be written or woven about the incidents in the life of one or two principal characters, you should keep them in the foreground as much as possible, and not allow the minor characters to attract too much attention. Deal with your main characters first, and then, add your minor characters as they are needed.

Have your characters natural and true to life. The name of a character should be short and characteristic. A short name is easier to write and to remember. Avoid the use of silly or eccentric names, unless you have an eccentric comedy or farce.

Establish a clear relationship between all characters. See that they are put in the situation or surroundings in which they naturally belong.

Do not let the spectator lose sight of your leading characters; follow them through all the incidents of the story in which they are represented.

Many stories are weak on dramatic characterization. The average amateur writer has the leading characters very poorly developed and usually leaves them to wander around alone, without any definite aim or direct action.

The leading characters must have sufficient action to befit the parts they are playing and be impressive to the spectators.