Creating memorable characters

Characters act as vessels that transport readers into new worlds and experiences. Crafting memorable characters is a crucial task for any author, and one effective way to achieve this is by giving them distinctive quirks, mannerisms, gestures, and habits. These small yet important details breathe life into characters, making them relatable, engaging, and unforgettable.

What are character quirks?

Character quirks are unique traits or behaviors that set individuals apart from one another. A quirk can be as subtle as a particular way of speaking or as pronounced as an unusual hobby. When crafted thoughtfully, quirks become a powerful tool for character differentiation and can provide crucial insights into their personalities, backgrounds, and motivations.

Consider Sherlock Holmes’s remarkable observation skills coupled with his eccentricities or Elizabeth Bennet’s witty retorts and strong-willed nature. These quirks make them intriguing and relatable, providing readers with a deeper connection to the characters.

List of character quirks

• Carries a large coin that he or she constantly rolls over his or her knuckles.
• Is a habitual sniffler, even when healthy.
•  • Regularly gazes at the sky to observe the position of the sun and moon, making comments about it.
• Always knows the direction they travel in
• Corrects people when they use informal language.
• Is never seen without a baseball cap or stocking cap
• Whistles a particular song at random times and won't stop.
• Is a constant fidgeter and frequently touches their face or head.
•  • Dots their i’s with a smiley face or heart.
• Is unable to properly digest proteins and becomes very ill if too much protein-rich food is consumed.
• Compulsively interrupts people telling stories to interject facts about the story that he or she knows only because they have heard it before, not because they were involved in it.
•  • Fabricates trivial lies without purpose.
• Has a weakness for rescuing stray animals.
• Gets physically angry when people mispronounce a certain word (e.g., Illinois, precedent as president, especially as especially).
• (cheat) Regularly mispronounces a certain word or uses redundant terms (e.g., PIN number, ATM machine, Hot water heater–if it’s hot, does it need to be heated?).
• When stressed or lying, speaks from the corner of his or her mouth.
• Profusely sweats even when at rest.
• Is unwilling to take advice from others because he or she believes they know everything.
• Uses mundane items as toys (e.g., bottle caps, straws, chopsticks).
• Cannot drink anything with ice in it.
• Is strongly susceptible to “brain freeze.”
• Doesn’t wash his or her hands after using the bathroom.
• When dining out, always tidy up the table and reset the condiments.
• Walks in the middle of any aisle, sidewalk, or other shared walkway, causing people to have to move around him or her.
• Drags his or her feet.
• Only drinks from plastic or paper cups and cannot stand the feel of glass in his or her hand.
• Draws random doodles on any piece of paper in front of him or her and always carries a pen or pencil to facilitate this habit.
• Wears only new socks.
• Has multiple hidden body piercings or tattoos that regular clothing can conceal.
• Always stands with his or her hands behind their back, sometimes in an “at ease” position, though he or she was never in the military.
• Excessively uses initials or acronyms for common AND uncommon phrases and doesn’t bother to explain them.
• Doesn’t eat green things.
• Strongly dislikes the sound of chewing and hums a quiet song while eating.
• Has the ability to speak in a cartoon-like voice that sounds little or nothing like his or her real voice.
• Is thrifty, nearly to the point of obsessive or compulsive nature.
• Is always at least ten minutes early to any meeting or appointment.
• Can calculate the total of any items put in a shopping cart and tax to within $0.05.
• Generally submits to the ideas and suggestions of others without thinking of his or her own needs.
•  • Easily places themselves in harm's way without careful thought.
• Always carries change in his or her pocket to give to beggars or the homeless.
• Is always trying to recruit people to his or her religious/philosophical beliefs.
•  • Regularly quotes favorite movies and can typically identify which movie a quote is from.
• Overly honest person, always telling the truth even to his or her own detriment.
• Takes stupid bets/dares for small amounts of money.
• Has several parts of their body that are double-jointed and bend or flex in an unusual or uncanny way.
• Writes with the left hand, but does everything else with the right.
• Can only see out of one eye or hear out of one ear.
• Is susceptible to malapropisms or spoonerisms.

Crafting character mannerisms

Mannerisms are habitual gestures or ways of doing things that reflect a character’s internal state. Unlike quirks, which may be more overt and distinctive, mannerisms can be subtle and reveal deeper aspects of a character's personality.

For example, a character who frequently adjusts their glasses may be seen as nervous or detail-oriented. Someone who taps their foot may come across as impatient or anxious. These mannerisms, when consistently portrayed, can create a non-verbal narrative that complements the character’s spoken words and actions.

List of mannerisms related to the head, neck, or shoulders

• brush hair, twirl hair, pull out hair
• crack neck, crane neck
• lean forward, lean back or away, lean sideways
• lift or lower head or face or chin
• lift shoulders, relax shoulders, roll shoulders
• roll head, cock head, turn head, tilt head
• rub neck
• shrug
• touch (drop) chin to chest

List of mannerisms related to the face

• adjust glasses, push up glasses, pull down glasses
• blink eyes, cross eyes, bat eyes, roll eyes
• blot makeup, blot sweat, wipe off sweat
• blow nose, pick nose, wipe nose, hold nose
• massage forehead, rub temples
• pick at blemish
• play with a beard or mustache
• pull (tug) on ear, pick at ear, clean out ear
• raise eyebrow(s)
• rub eyes, massage eyes
• scratch nose or chin or head or ear
• smooth eyebrows, pluck at eyebrows
• wink
• wipe away tears

List of mannerisms related to the mouth

• apply lipstick or ChapStick
• bite lip, bite tongue
• bite the end of a pen or pencil
• blow bubbles (with gum, spit, water)
• chew (pop) gum, chew tobacco
• chew ice
• choke
• frown, grimace
• gargle, gurgle
• grind teeth; tense, tighten, or grip jaw
• gulp, swallow
• lick lips, smack lips, chew lips
• pick at chapped lips
• play with food
• purse lips, squeeze lips together with fingers
• put a finger to lips (in thought or to shush someone)
• sing
• sip tea or coffee (other drinks), gulp down alcoholic drinks
• smile
• smoke, fiddle with cigarette
• spit
• spit out food, spit out water
• stick tongue out
• stuff mouth
• suck on candy
• tap teeth, pick teeth, bite nails
• throw up (hurl, vomit, spew, upchuck, get sick, toss cookies, lose dinner, regurgitate)
• touch tongue to lips
• whistle, hum, make sounds with mouth
• yawn

List of mannerisms related to hair

• braid hair
• chew hair
• pull at curls, push hair behind ears, mess with barrettes or ribbons or hats
• pushes hair off face (own face or the face of others)

List of mannerisms related to hands or fingers

• crack knuckles
• cut nails, clean nails, paint nails, bite nails
• hold someone’s hand
• massage thumb or finger, massage (rub) wrist or sore joints
• pick at nails/cuticles
• pick at scab, push at bruise
• play with cups, dinnerware, napkins, salt and pepper shakers, anything on a dinner table
• roll a coin or pencil between fingers
• rub hands together
• rub hands up and down arms, up and down legs
• snap fingers
• suck thumb or finger
• tap or drum fingers on self or object
• toss ball (or other object) hand to hand, juggle objects
• trace scars or injuries
• wag, shake, or point finger
• rap arms around own body
• wring hands

List of mannerisms related to the eyes, brows, and forehead 

• arched a sly brow:  sly, haughty
• blinked owlishly:  just waking, focusing, needs glasses
• brows bumped together in a scowl:  worried, disapproving, irritated
• brows knitted in a frown: worried, disapproval, thoughtful
• bug-eyed:  surprised, fear, horror
• cocky wink and confident smile:  overconfidence, arrogant, good humor, sexy humor
• eyes burned with hatred: besides hatred, this might suggest maniacal feelings
• eyes flashed: fury, defiance, lust, promise, seduction
• eyes rolled skyward: disbelief, distrust, humor
• forehead puckered:  thoughtful, worried, irritation
• frustration crinkled her eyes
• gaze dipped to her décolletage: sexual interest, attraction, lust
• gimlet-eyed/narrowed eyes: irritation, thoughtful, mean, angry
• gleam of deviltry:  humor, conniving, cunning
• kept eye contact, but her gaze became glazed: pretending an interest where there is none/boredom
• narrowed to crinkled slits:  angry, distrust
• nystagmic eyes missed nothing (constantly shifting eyes):  Shifty
• pupils dilated:  interested, attraction to the opposite sex, fear
• raked her with freezing contempt
• slammed his eyes shut:  stunned, furious, pain
• squinted in a furtive manner:  fearful, sneaky
• stared with cow eyes:  surprised, disbelief, hopeful, lovestruck
• subtle wink:  sexy, humor/sharing a joke, sarcasm
• unrelenting stare: distrust, demanding, high interest, unyielding

List of mannerisms related to posture

• ambled away:  relaxed, lazy
• barged ahead:  rude, hurried
• battled his way through the melee:  desperate, anger, alarm
• cruised into the diner:  easy-going, feeling dapper, confident
• dawdled alongside the road:  lazy, deliberate delay for motives, unhurried, relaxed
• dragged his blanket in the dirt:   sadness/depressed, weary
• edged closer to him:  sneaky, seeking comfort, seeking protection, seeking an audience
• he stood straighter and straightened his tie:  sudden interest, sexual attraction
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig: demonstrates physical condition – he has to pee
• hips rolled and undulated:  sexy walk, exaggerating for sex appeal
• hovered over them with malice/like a threatening storm: here it’s malice, but one may hover for many reasons.
• hunched over to look shorter:  appear inconspicuous, ashamed of actions, ashamed of height
• leaped into action, feet hammering the marbled floor:  eager, fearful, joyous
• long-legged strides:  hurried, impatient
• lumbered across:  heavy steps of a big man in a hurry
• minced her way up to him: timid, sneaky, insecure, dainty or pretense at dainty
• paced/prowled the halls:  worried, worried impatience, impatient, diligently seeking pivoted on his heel and took off:  mistaken and changes direction, following orders, hurried, abrupt change of mind, angry retreat
• plodded down the road:  unhurried, burdened, reluctant
• practiced sensual stroll:  sexy, showing off
• rammed her bare foot into her jeans: angry, rushed
• rocked back and forth on his heels: thoughtful, impatiently waiting
• sagged against the wall:  exhausted, disappointment
• sallied forth:  confident, determined
• sashayed her cute little fanny:  confident, determined, angered and determined
• shrank into the angry crowd:  fear, insecure, seeking to elude
• sketched a brief bow and assumed a regal pose: confident, mocking, snooty, arrogant skidded to an abrupt halt: change of heart, fear, surprise, shock
• skulked on the edges of the crowd: sneaky, ashamed, timid
• slithered through the door:  sneaky, evil, bad intentions
• stormed toward her, pulling up short when: anger with a sudden surprise
• swaggered into the classroom: overconfident, proud, arrogant, conceited
• tall erect posture:  confidence, military bearing
• toe tapped a staccato rhythm:  impatience, irritation
• tottered/staggered unsteadily, then keeled over:  drunk, drugged, aged, ill
• waltzed across the floor:  happy, blissful, exuberant, conceited, arrogant

List of general character mannerisms

• bounce foot
• check watch, check e-mail, check current devices
• clean glasses (on cloth, under water, on clothes, with spit)
• cross and uncross legs
• dance (hop or bounce) from foot to foot
• doodle
• draw
• fiddle with radio or music device
• fiddle (play) with rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings; twirl them; take them off, put them on; play with jewelry clasps
• freeze (cease moving)
• hold and stroke pets
• laugh, cry, smile, sniffle
• shudder, tremble, quiver, twitch, shake, wiggle, wriggle through
• sigh, hold your breath
• sneeze
• squirm (in seat)
• talk to self
• take notes
• tap on phone (or other communication devices)
• tilt (tip) chair back

Developing distinctive gestures

Gestures are a part of non-verbal communication and can add depth and realism to a character. A well-chosen gesture can demonstrate confidence, vulnerability, or any other trait you wish to convey.

Imagine a character who frequently runs their fingers through their hair when stressed or someone who uses expansive hand movements when they’re excited. These gestures can be used to set the tone of a scene, offering visual cues that enhance the reader’s understanding of the character's emotions.

Gestures related to head movement

• cocked his head:  curiosity, smart-alecky, wondering, thoughtful
• cocked his head left and rolled his eyes to right corner of the ceiling:  introspection
• droop of his head: depressed, downcast, hiding true feelings
• nodded vigorously: eager
• tilted her head to one side while listening:  extreme interest, possibly sexual interest

Gestures related to the mouth and jaw

• a lackluster smile:  feigning cheerfulness
• cigarette hung immobile in the mouth: shock, lazy, uncaring, relaxed casualness
• clenched his jaw at the sight:  angered, worried, surprised
• curled her lips with icy contempt
• expelled her breath in a whose:  relief, disappointment
• gagged at the smell: disgust, distaste
• gapped mouth stare:  surprised, shock, disbelief
• gritted his teeth:  anger, irritation, holding back opinion
• inhaled a sharp breath:  surprise, shock, fear, horror
• licked her lips:  nervous, sexual attraction
• lips primed: affronted, upset, insulted
• lips pursed for a juicy kiss
• lips pursed like she’d been chewing a lemon rind: dislike, angry, irritated, sarcasm
• lips screwed into: irritation, anger, grimace, scorn
• lips set in a grim line: sorrow, worried, fear of the worst
• pursed her lips:  perturbed, waiting for a kiss
• scarfed down the last biscuit:  physical hunger, greed
• slack-mouthed:  total shock, disbelief
• slow and sexy smile:  attraction, seductive, coy
• smacked his lips: anticipation
• smile congealed then melted into horror
• smile dangled on the corner of his lips: cocky, sexy
• smirked and tossed her hair over her shoulder:  conceit, sarcasm, overconfident
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit: sarcasm, conceit
• spewed water and spit: shock
• stuck out her tongue: humor, sarcasm, teasing, childish
• toothy smile:  eagerness, hopeful
• wary smile surfaced on her lips

Gestures related to the nose

• nose wrinkled in distaste/at the aroma
• nostrils flared:  anger, sexual attraction
• nose in the air:  snooty, haughty

Gestures related to the face in general

• crimson with fury
• handed it over shame-faced
• jutted his chin: confident, angry, forceful
• managed a deadpan expression:  expressionless
• muscles in her face tightened:  unsmiling, concealing emotions, anger, worried
• rested his chin in his palm and looked thoughtful
• rubbed a hand over his dark stubble:  thoughtful, ashamed of his appearance
• screwed up her face:  anger, smiling, ready to cry, could almost be any emotion
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit: conceit, derision, scorn

Gestures related to the arms and hands

• a vicious yank
• arm curled around her waist, tugging her next to him:  possessive, prideful, protective
• bit her lip and glanced away:  shy, ashamed, insecure
• brandished his fist:  anger, threatening, ready to fight, confident, show of pride
• clamped his fingers into tender flesh:  anger, protective, wants to inflict pain
• clenched his dirty little fists: stubborn, angry
• clapped her hands on her hips, arms crooked like sugar bowel handles:  anger, demanding, disbelief
• constantly twirled her hair and tucked it behind her ear:  attracted to the opposite sex, shy crossed his arms over his chest: waiting, impatient, putting a barrier
• crushed the paper in his fist:  anger, surrender, discard
• dived into the food: hungry, eager, greedy
• doffed his hat:  polite gesture, mocking, teasing
• doodled on the phone pad and tapped the air with her foot:  bored, inattention, introspection
• drummed her fingers on the desk:  impatient, frustrated, bored
• fanned her heated face with her hands: physically hot, embarrassed, indicating attraction
• fiddled with his keys: nervous, bored
• firm, palm-to-palm handshake:  confident, honest
• flipped him the bird: sarcastic discard
• forked his fingers through his hair for the third time:  disquiet/consternation, worry, thoughtful
• handed it over shame-faced:  guilt, shame
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig:  physical need to relieve himself
• limp handshake:  lack of confidence, lack of enthusiasm
• propped his elbow on his knee: relaxed, thoughtful
• punched her pillow:  restless, can’t sleep, angry
• rested his chin in his palm:  thoughtful, worried
• scratched his hairy belly and yawned:  indolent, bored, lazy, relaxed, just waking
• shoulders lifted in a shrug:  doubtful, careless discard
• slapped his face in front of God and country:  enraged, affronted/insulted
• snapped a sharp salute:  respect, a sarcastic gesture meaning the opposite of respect
• snapped his fingers, expecting service:  arrogant, lack of respect, self-centered
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit
• spread her arms wide: welcoming,  joy, love
• stabbed at the food: anger, hunger, determined
• stood straighter and smoothed his tie:  sudden interest, possible sexual interest
• stuffed his hands in his pockets: self-conscious, throwing up a barrier
• sweaty handshake:  nervous, fearful
• touched his arm several times while explaining:  sign of attraction, flattery, possessive
• wide sweep of his arms:  welcoming, all-inclusive gesture, horror

Gestures related to sitting or standing up

• collapsed in a stupor:  exhausted, drunk, drugged, disbelief
• enthroned himself at the desk:  conceit, pronouncing or taking ownership
• exploded out of the chair:  shock, eagerness, anger, supreme joy
• roosted on the porch rail like a cock on a hen house roof:  claiming ownership, conceit, content
• sat, squaring an ankle over one knee:  relaxed and open
• slouched/wilted in a chair and paid languid attention to:  drowsy, lazy, depressed, disinterested, sad, totally relaxed, disrespectful
• squirmed in his chair: ill at ease, nervous, needs the bathroom

Gestures related to laying down

• flung himself into the bed: sad, depressed, exhausted, happy
• prostrated himself: surrender, desperate, miserable, powerless, obsequious, fawning, flattering
• punched her pillow:  can’t sleep, angry, frustrated
• threw himself on the floor kicking and screaming: tantrum

Gestures related to the entire body

• body stiffened at the remark:  offended, angry, alerted
• body swayed to music:  dreamy, fond memories, enjoys the music
• bounced in the car seat, pointing:  excitement, fear, eager
• cowered behind his brother:  fear, shyness, coward, desperate
• curled into a ball:  sorrow, fear, sleepy, defensive
• heart galloping:  anxiety, joy, eager
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig
• humped over his cane, each step shaking and careful: pain, aged
• inhaled a deep breath and blew out slowly: buying time to find words/thoughtful, reconciled
• quick and jerky like rusty cogs on a wheel:  unsure of actions, self-conscious, tense, edgy
• rocked back and forth on his heels:  impatient, cocky, gleeful
• manhandled the woman into a corner:  bully, anger
• slumped shoulders: defeat, depressed, sad, surrender
• stiff-backed:  priggish, haughty, affronted
• stood straighter and straightened his tie:  sexual interest, wants to make an impression
• stooped and bent: aged, arthritic, in pain
• stretched extravagantly and yawned:  tired, bored, unconcerned
• sweating uncontrollably: nervous, fear, guilt
• tall erect posture:  confidence, military bearing
• was panting now at:  afraid, exhausted, out of breath, sexual excitement

Creating habits as storytelling tools

Habits are routine behaviors that reveal a character’s background, lifestyle, and priorities. They offer a glimpse into a character’s day-to-day life and can serve as a foundation for plot development.

A character who carefully organizes their desk every morning may be revealed as someone seeking control amid chaos. Alternatively, someone who skips breakfast every day might suggest a busy lifestyle or a distinct dislike for morning routines.

Habits, much like quirks, serve to enhance character consistency. They add layers to the story and can function as subtle narrative devices that drive the plot forward or even act as catalysts for character transformation.

Habits related to character emotions

Agitation Pacing

• nail biting
• forced laughter 
• fidgeting with hair or clothing 

Aggravation 

• clenched jaw 
• crossed arms 
• pacing 
• tapping foot 

Aggression 

• curled upper lip 
• finger pointing 
• flared nostrils 
• leaning into someone else’s personal space 

Agitation 

• pacing 
• jerky movements 
• restlessness 
• wavering voice 

Anger 

• bared teeth 
• flared nostrils 
• stamping a foot 
• wide-legged stance 

Anguish 

• sweating
• trembling 
• cords standing out on neck 
• clenching jaw or grinding teeth 

Anxiety 

• fidgeting 
• wringing the hands 
• rapid, shallow breathing 
• clenching interwoven fingers 
• jerky movements 
• trembling hands 
• grinding teeth 
• rapid, shallow breathing 

Apprehension 

• pursed lips 
• audible breathing 
• tugging on an ear 
• scratching a non-existent itch 

Belligerence 

• clenched fists 
• fixed glare 
• jutting jaw 
• loud voice 

Concentration 

• fixed gaze 
• dilated pupils 
• fingers stroking chin 
• minimal dialogue 

Concern 

• pale face 
• visible sweating 
• wringing hands 
• fidgeting or jiggling keys, cell phone, or jewelry 

Confusion 

• stuttering 
• biting the lip 
• rubbing the chin 
• exaggerated swallowing 

Constraint 

• bowed head 
• minimal eye contact 
• stepping or leaning back 
• picking at lint or animal hairs on clothing 

Contemplation 

• relaxed posture 
• studying ceiling or toes 
• chewing on a pen or pencil 
• leaning back in a chair with arms behind the head 

Defeat 

• lack of eye contact 
• slumped posture 
• toneless dialogue 
• trembling chin 
• vibrating chin 
• sagging posture 
• non-responsiveness 
• staring at toes or hands 

Defiance 

• cocked head 
• grinding teeth 
• puffed-out chest 
• stony stare 

Denial 

• elevated eyebrows 
• raised voice 
• rapid speech 
• wide eyes 
• slack jaw 
• wide eyes 
• backing away 
• raising palms and shaking the head 

Depression 

• head in hands 
• hunched shoulders 
• shuffling feet, hands in pockets 
• lowered head, with gaze on ground or toes 

Desperation 

• biting bottom lip 
• darting gaze 
• pacing 
• tugging at hair 

Determination 

• clenched fists 
• jaw thrust forward 
• pushing up sleeves 
• steepled fingers 

Deviousness 

• rapid blinking 
• lack of eye contact 
• uuncharacteristic stuttering g
• gnawing on the inside of the cheek 

Disagreement 

• crossed arms 
• shaking head 
• twitching nose 
• one leg crossed over the other in a seated position 

Disappointment 

• hard swallow 
• shuffling feet 
• stolid expression 
• wincing or flinching 

Disapproval 

• tight lips 
• constricted pupils 
• outstaring someone 
• walking away without letting someone finish their sentence 

Disbelief 

• palm on chest 
• rapid blinking 
• turning pale 
• unfocussed gaze 

Discomfort 

• shuffling feet 
• pained grimace 
• rubbing the back of neck, chin, or forehead 
• repeatedly shifting body weight from one foot to the other 

Distraction 

• rubbing arms 
• clenching fists 
• adjusting clothing 
• audible exhalations 

Distrust 

• cocked head 
• interlocking fingers 
• clasping hands behind back 
• abbreviated greeting or handshake 
• doubt 
• squinting 
• chin tilted upward 
• scratching the neck 
• rubbing or touching the nose 

Doubt 

• biting the cheek 
• rocking on the feet 
• forcing the lips together 
• cramming hands in pockets 

Embarrassment 

• shuffling feet 
• flushed cheeks 
• coughing or stuttering 
• covering face with hands 
• coughing 
• excessive swallowing 
• tugging at clothing 
• wincing 
• blushing 
• coughing 
• sweating 
• wincing or flinching 

Exasperation 

• making a rude gesture 
• scoping out the ceiling 
• running fingers through hair 
• raising hands in an I-give-up gesture 

Fear

• flared nostrils 
• furrowed brow 
• rocking on heels 
• tightly clenched mouth 

Guilt 

• cracking voice 
• trembling chin 
• tugging at the collar or clothing 
• staring at the floor or one’s toes 
• cracking voice 
• grimacing 
• lip biting 
• quivering chin 
• humiliation 
• blushing 
• bowing the head 
• hiding the face 
• hugging oneself 

Impatience 

• crossing the arms 
• watching the door 
• repeatedly checking the time 
• standing akimbo (hands on hips, elbows turned out) 

Insecurity 

• closed posture 
• fiddling with hair or biting nails 
• hiding hands in pockets or behind the back 
• checking one’s breath behind an open hand 
• hugging oneself 
• tight-lipped smile 
• fiddling with hair or makeup 
• shifting weight from foot to foot 
• licking one’s lips 
• flawless personal grooming 
• smiling for no apparent reason 
• constant talking to others about one’s love interest 

Introspection 

• quiet mood 
• lowered head 
• glancing downward during a conversation 
• gazing past/around someone while speaking 

Irritation 

• arguing 
• crossing the arms 
• narrowing the eyes 
• raising the voice, cursing 
• stomping 
• snorting or sneering 
• ill-considered dialogue 

Loneliness 

• monotone voice 
• talking to oneself 
• watching sad movies or TV series 
• excessive time on the internet or playing video games 

Nervousness 

• unable to sit or stand still 
• unable to focus on conversation 
• tapping feet or drumming fingers 
• handbag or briefcase held in front of body 
• dilated pupils 
• drumming fingers 
• excessive blinking 
• rapid breathing 

Oppression 

• slow, soft speech 
• teeth clamped on the upper lip 
• folded hands and bowed head 
• standing with weight on one leg, the other leg angled away from the body 

Pain 

• flinching 
• grimacing 
• clutching the painful area 
• writhing or bending over 
• panic Incoherence 
• rasping breaths 
• squeezing eyes shut 
• flinching at unexpected sounds 

Pessimism 

• one hand on hip 
• wide eyes 
• lopsided sneer 
• single arched eyebrow 

Pride (in someone else) 

• elevated chin 
• gleam in the eyes 
• pointing at the object of one’s pride 
• discussing the accomplishment with someone nearby 

Rage

• crossed-arm stance 
• flared nostrils 
• puckered forehead 
• physical or verbal attacks 

Regret 

• downturned lips 
• frail voice 
• attempting to explain or apologize 
• trying to right the wrong that caused the regret 

Relief 

• hesitant laughter 
• huge exhalation 
• relaxing posture, especially shoulders 
• gazing up, pressing palms together in a praying gesture 

Sadness 

• puffy face or eyes 
• runny makeup 
• snot on the upper lip or mustache 
• swiping at the nose with tissue 

Shame 

• flushed cheeks 
• moaning 
• vibrating chin 
• poor personal grooming 
• crying 
• involuntary moan 
• hiding the face with hair or a hat 
• scuffing a toe against carpet or dirt 

Skepticism 

smirking 

cocking the head 

wrinkling the nose 

narrowing the eyes 

wrinkled nose 

hand gesture of dismissal 

condescending smile 

cutting someone off in mid-sentence 

Stubbornness 

• white knuckles 
• fixed stare 
• set jaw 
• tapping foot 
• uncertainty 
• shrugging 
• rubbing the chin 
• tugging on the lip 
• interrupting one’s own dialogue 

Sympathy 

• at a loss for words 
• sad smile 
• verbal offer of assistance 
• murmuring optimistic platitudes in a soothing tone

Uncertainty 

• biting on nails or lips 
• twiddling thumbs 
• holding steepled fingers to lips 
• glancing away during conversation 

Unease 

• insomnia 
• trembling 
• tense muscles 
• inability to concentrate 
• clammy hands 
• picking at food 
• licking or biting the lips 
• repetitive actions that accomplish nothing 

Worry 

• poor sleep habits 
• poor personal grooming 
• puffy eyes with dark pouches beneath 
• calling the police or other support services

Tips for Writing Character Quirks, Mannerisms, Gestures, and Habits

Avoid overloading a character with too many quirks or habits, as this can make them appear unrealistic or caricature-like. Choose a few defining traits and weave them naturally into the narrative.

Make sure quirks and habits contribute to character development. They should mirror or contrast with the character's journey, offering insights into their growth or struggles.

Once established, maintain consistency in portraying these traits. This helps build authenticity and allows readers to form a stronger connection with the character.

Quirks and mannerisms can also depict relationships between characters. How one character reacts to another’s habits or quirks can reveal the dynamics of their relationship.

Pay attention to the people around you, as well as your own behavior. This can inspire realistic and relatable traits that resonate with readers.

Complete list of character ticks, mannerisms, gestures, and habits

• Abdominal jerking, tensing
• Adjusts clothing 
• Amplitude of speech
• Animal sounds (cow, dog, etc)
• Ankle flexing
• Apraxia
• Arm flailing, flapping, flexing, jerking
• Arranging things in a specific Charorder
• Baby Talk
• Barely audible muttering
• Barking– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Belching
• Bending to touch ground
• Bites nails
• Biting others
• Biting self (lip, arm, etc)
• Biting things
• Body jerking
• Body slamming
• Burns self
• Calling out saying “hey, hey”, “wow” etc
• Cannot get started – see perseveration
• Chewing on clothes
• Chronic negativism
• Collecting both useless and useful ojbects
• Complex respiratory (breathing) patterns
• Contamination concerns
• Contracting all muscles at the same time
• Coprolalia – uttering socially unacceptable words or phrases
• Copropraxia – making obscene gestures
• Correcting
• Coughing
• Counting
• Cracks knuckles
• Cuts self
• Dancing
• Defensiveness
• Dystonic postures
• Eating – see food
• Echolalia – repeating other’s words or statements
• Echopraxia
• Evening up – arranging objects in specific orders – is not a tic.  See compulsions
• Exactness – arranging objects in a specific order
• Exaggerated exhalations, catches in breathing
• Exaggerated inhalations, catches in breathing
• Eye blinking
• - rapid eye blinking
• - prolonged eye blinking
• - unusual eye blinking
• - eye rolling (upward or side to side)
• - eye squinting
• Facial contortions
• Facial grimacing
• Finger movements
• Food – needs food arranged on plate a certain way, needs to eat foods in a certain order
• Food – won’t eat certain foods
• Foot dragging, stamping, tapping, shaking, stomping, stepping backwards
• Frowning
• Germs, concerned about germs
•  Getting stuck
• Grunting– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Gurgling
• Gyrating
• Hair tossing
• Hair twisting
• Hand clapping
• Hand washing
• Head banging
• Head bobbing
• Head jerking
• Head tossing
• Hiccupping
• Hissing– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Hitting
• hit or by stopping just short of hitting the person.
• Hitting objects – see hitting
• Hitting others – see hitting
• Hitting self – see hitting
• Hoarding
• Honking – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Hopping
• Humming
• Injures self
• Jaw, abnormal movements, snapping
• Jumping
• Kicking
• Kissing
• Knee bending, knocking
• Knuckle cracking
• Laughing
• Leg jerking, kicking
• Licking – self, others, objects
• Looping
• Making “tsk” and “pft” noises
• Making funny facial expressions
• Making guttural sounds
• Making unintelligible noises
• Moaning– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Mouth twitch
• Muscle tensing
• Nail biting
• Negativism
• Noisy breathing
• Nose twitching
• Ordering – arranging objects in a specific order
• Pallilalia – repeating one’s own words
• Patterns – doing things in patterns
• Perfectionism
• Perseveration
• Picking at lint
• Picking at sores
• Pinching
• Pouting
• Pulling at clothes
• Rage 
• Rapid jerking of any part of the body
• Reads signs, license plates, credits in movies
• Reassurance Seeking
• Repeating rituals
• Repeats actions or movements of others
• Repeats parts of words
• Repeats phrases
• Repeats words
• Ritualistic behaviours
• Rituals
• Saving seemingly useless objects
• Scratching
• Screaming– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Screeching
• Seeking assurance
• Self injuries
• Shivering
• Shoulder shrugging
• Shouting – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Skipping
• Smacking– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make. 
• Smelling fingers or hands, food, other people
• Sniffing
• Snorting
• Somersaulting
• Speech atypicalities such as speaking in unusual rhythms, tones, accents etc.
• Spitting
• Squatting
• Squeaking – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Squealing – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Standing on the toes of one foot and twirling the body
• Stooping
• Straightens things – arranging objects in a specific order
• Stuttering
• Sucking
• Superstitions – avoids things with number 13
• Symmetry – arranging objects in a specific order
• Table banging
• Talking to oneself
• Taps objects, self
• Tearing books
• Tearing paper or books
• Teeth clicking, grinding
• Tensing parts of the body
• Toe Walking
• Thoughts of violence
• Throat clearing
• unnecessary throat clearing
• exaggerated throat clearing
• Throwing things
• Tongue clicking or clacking
• Tongue thrusting
• Touching
• Touching objects (or self)
• Twirling
• Twirling in circles
• Uttering out of context phrases or words – see Coprolalia
• Walking in a pattern
• Walking on toes
• Washing hands
• Whistling
• Worry – minor errors,
• Writhing movements
• Yelling
• Yelping – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.

Creating memorable characters

Characters act as vessels that transport readers into new worlds and experiences. Crafting memorable characters is a crucial task for any author, and one effective way to achieve this is by giving them distinctive quirks, mannerisms, gestures, and habits. These small yet important details breathe life into characters, making them relatable, engaging, and unforgettable.

What are character quirks?

Character quirks are unique traits or behaviors that set individuals apart from one another. A quirk can be as subtle as a particular way of speaking or as pronounced as an unusual hobby. When crafted thoughtfully, quirks become a powerful tool for character differentiation and can provide crucial insights into their personalities, backgrounds, and motivations.

Consider Sherlock Holmes’s remarkable observation skills coupled with his eccentricities or Elizabeth Bennet’s witty retorts and strong-willed nature. These quirks make them intriguing and relatable, providing readers with a deeper connection to the characters.

List of character quirks

• Carries a large coin that he or she constantly rolls over his or her knuckles.
• Is a habitual sniffler, even when healthy.
•  • Regularly gazes at the sky to observe the position of the sun and moon, making comments about it.
• Always knows the direction they travel in
• Corrects people when they use informal language.
• Is never seen without a baseball cap or stocking cap
• Whistles a particular song at random times and won't stop.
• Is a constant fidgeter and frequently touches their face or head.
•  • Dots their i’s with a smiley face or heart.
• Is unable to properly digest proteins and becomes very ill if too much protein-rich food is consumed.
• Compulsively interrupts people telling stories to interject facts about the story that he or she knows only because they have heard it before, not because they were involved in it.
•  • Fabricates trivial lies without purpose.
• Has a weakness for rescuing stray animals.
• Gets physically angry when people mispronounce a certain word (e.g., Illinois, precedent as president, especially as especially).
• (cheat) Regularly mispronounces a certain word or uses redundant terms (e.g., PIN number, ATM machine, Hot water heater–if it’s hot, does it need to be heated?).
• When stressed or lying, speaks from the corner of his or her mouth.
• Profusely sweats even when at rest.
• Is unwilling to take advice from others because he or she believes they know everything.
• Uses mundane items as toys (e.g., bottle caps, straws, chopsticks).
• Cannot drink anything with ice in it.
• Is strongly susceptible to “brain freeze.”
• Doesn’t wash his or her hands after using the bathroom.
• When dining out, always tidy up the table and reset the condiments.
• Walks in the middle of any aisle, sidewalk, or other shared walkway, causing people to have to move around him or her.
• Drags his or her feet.
• Only drinks from plastic or paper cups and cannot stand the feel of glass in his or her hand.
• Draws random doodles on any piece of paper in front of him or her and always carries a pen or pencil to facilitate this habit.
• Wears only new socks.
• Has multiple hidden body piercings or tattoos that regular clothing can conceal.
• Always stands with his or her hands behind their back, sometimes in an “at ease” position, though he or she was never in the military.
• Excessively uses initials or acronyms for common AND uncommon phrases and doesn’t bother to explain them.
• Doesn’t eat green things.
• Strongly dislikes the sound of chewing and hums a quiet song while eating.
• Has the ability to speak in a cartoon-like voice that sounds little or nothing like his or her real voice.
• Is thrifty, nearly to the point of obsessive or compulsive nature.
• Is always at least ten minutes early to any meeting or appointment.
• Can calculate the total of any items put in a shopping cart and tax to within $0.05.
• Generally submits to the ideas and suggestions of others without thinking of his or her own needs.
•  • Easily places themselves in harm's way without careful thought.
• Always carries change in his or her pocket to give to beggars or the homeless.
• Is always trying to recruit people to his or her religious/philosophical beliefs.
•  • Regularly quotes favorite movies and can typically identify which movie a quote is from.
• Overly honest person, always telling the truth even to his or her own detriment.
• Takes stupid bets/dares for small amounts of money.
• Has several parts of their body that are double-jointed and bend or flex in an unusual or uncanny way.
• Writes with the left hand, but does everything else with the right.
• Can only see out of one eye or hear out of one ear.
• Is susceptible to malapropisms or spoonerisms.

Crafting character mannerisms

Mannerisms are habitual gestures or ways of doing things that reflect a character’s internal state. Unlike quirks, which may be more overt and distinctive, mannerisms can be subtle and reveal deeper aspects of a character's personality.

For example, a character who frequently adjusts their glasses may be seen as nervous or detail-oriented. Someone who taps their foot may come across as impatient or anxious. These mannerisms, when consistently portrayed, can create a non-verbal narrative that complements the character’s spoken words and actions.

List of mannerisms related to the head, neck, or shoulders

• brush hair, twirl hair, pull out hair
• crack neck, crane neck
• lean forward, lean back or away, lean sideways
• lift or lower head or face or chin
• lift shoulders, relax shoulders, roll shoulders
• roll head, cock head, turn head, tilt head
• rub neck
• shrug
• touch (drop) chin to chest

List of mannerisms related to the face

• adjust glasses, push up glasses, pull down glasses
• blink eyes, cross eyes, bat eyes, roll eyes
• blot makeup, blot sweat, wipe off sweat
• blow nose, pick nose, wipe nose, hold nose
• massage forehead, rub temples
• pick at blemish
• play with a beard or mustache
• pull (tug) on ear, pick at ear, clean out ear
• raise eyebrow(s)
• rub eyes, massage eyes
• scratch nose or chin or head or ear
• smooth eyebrows, pluck at eyebrows
• wink
• wipe away tears

List of mannerisms related to the mouth

• apply lipstick or ChapStick
• bite lip, bite tongue
• bite the end of a pen or pencil
• blow bubbles (with gum, spit, water)
• chew (pop) gum, chew tobacco
• chew ice
• choke
• frown, grimace
• gargle, gurgle
• grind teeth; tense, tighten, or grip jaw
• gulp, swallow
• lick lips, smack lips, chew lips
• pick at chapped lips
• play with food
• purse lips, squeeze lips together with fingers
• put a finger to lips (in thought or to shush someone)
• sing
• sip tea or coffee (other drinks), gulp down alcoholic drinks
• smile
• smoke, fiddle with cigarette
• spit
• spit out food, spit out water
• stick tongue out
• stuff mouth
• suck on candy
• tap teeth, pick teeth, bite nails
• throw up (hurl, vomit, spew, upchuck, get sick, toss cookies, lose dinner, regurgitate)
• touch tongue to lips
• whistle, hum, make sounds with mouth
• yawn

List of mannerisms related to hair

• braid hair
• chew hair
• pull at curls, push hair behind ears, mess with barrettes or ribbons or hats
• pushes hair off face (own face or the face of others)

List of mannerisms related to hands or fingers

• crack knuckles
• cut nails, clean nails, paint nails, bite nails
• hold someone’s hand
• massage thumb or finger, massage (rub) wrist or sore joints
• pick at nails/cuticles
• pick at scab, push at bruise
• play with cups, dinnerware, napkins, salt and pepper shakers, anything on a dinner table
• roll a coin or pencil between fingers
• rub hands together
• rub hands up and down arms, up and down legs
• snap fingers
• suck thumb or finger
• tap or drum fingers on self or object
• toss ball (or other object) hand to hand, juggle objects
• trace scars or injuries
• wag, shake, or point finger
• rap arms around own body
• wring hands

List of mannerisms related to the eyes, brows, and forehead 

• arched a sly brow:  sly, haughty
• blinked owlishly:  just waking, focusing, needs glasses
• brows bumped together in a scowl:  worried, disapproving, irritated
• brows knitted in a frown: worried, disapproval, thoughtful
• bug-eyed:  surprised, fear, horror
• cocky wink and confident smile:  overconfidence, arrogant, good humor, sexy humor
• eyes burned with hatred: besides hatred, this might suggest maniacal feelings
• eyes flashed: fury, defiance, lust, promise, seduction
• eyes rolled skyward: disbelief, distrust, humor
• forehead puckered:  thoughtful, worried, irritation
• frustration crinkled her eyes
• gaze dipped to her décolletage: sexual interest, attraction, lust
• gimlet-eyed/narrowed eyes: irritation, thoughtful, mean, angry
• gleam of deviltry:  humor, conniving, cunning
• kept eye contact, but her gaze became glazed: pretending an interest where there is none/boredom
• narrowed to crinkled slits:  angry, distrust
• nystagmic eyes missed nothing (constantly shifting eyes):  Shifty
• pupils dilated:  interested, attraction to the opposite sex, fear
• raked her with freezing contempt
• slammed his eyes shut:  stunned, furious, pain
• squinted in a furtive manner:  fearful, sneaky
• stared with cow eyes:  surprised, disbelief, hopeful, lovestruck
• subtle wink:  sexy, humor/sharing a joke, sarcasm
• unrelenting stare: distrust, demanding, high interest, unyielding

List of mannerisms related to posture

• ambled away:  relaxed, lazy
• barged ahead:  rude, hurried
• battled his way through the melee:  desperate, anger, alarm
• cruised into the diner:  easy-going, feeling dapper, confident
• dawdled alongside the road:  lazy, deliberate delay for motives, unhurried, relaxed
• dragged his blanket in the dirt:   sadness/depressed, weary
• edged closer to him:  sneaky, seeking comfort, seeking protection, seeking an audience
• he stood straighter and straightened his tie:  sudden interest, sexual attraction
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig: demonstrates physical condition – he has to pee
• hips rolled and undulated:  sexy walk, exaggerating for sex appeal
• hovered over them with malice/like a threatening storm: here it’s malice, but one may hover for many reasons.
• hunched over to look shorter:  appear inconspicuous, ashamed of actions, ashamed of height
• leaped into action, feet hammering the marbled floor:  eager, fearful, joyous
• long-legged strides:  hurried, impatient
• lumbered across:  heavy steps of a big man in a hurry
• minced her way up to him: timid, sneaky, insecure, dainty or pretense at dainty
• paced/prowled the halls:  worried, worried impatience, impatient, diligently seeking pivoted on his heel and took off:  mistaken and changes direction, following orders, hurried, abrupt change of mind, angry retreat
• plodded down the road:  unhurried, burdened, reluctant
• practiced sensual stroll:  sexy, showing off
• rammed her bare foot into her jeans: angry, rushed
• rocked back and forth on his heels: thoughtful, impatiently waiting
• sagged against the wall:  exhausted, disappointment
• sallied forth:  confident, determined
• sashayed her cute little fanny:  confident, determined, angered and determined
• shrank into the angry crowd:  fear, insecure, seeking to elude
• sketched a brief bow and assumed a regal pose: confident, mocking, snooty, arrogant skidded to an abrupt halt: change of heart, fear, surprise, shock
• skulked on the edges of the crowd: sneaky, ashamed, timid
• slithered through the door:  sneaky, evil, bad intentions
• stormed toward her, pulling up short when: anger with a sudden surprise
• swaggered into the classroom: overconfident, proud, arrogant, conceited
• tall erect posture:  confidence, military bearing
• toe tapped a staccato rhythm:  impatience, irritation
• tottered/staggered unsteadily, then keeled over:  drunk, drugged, aged, ill
• waltzed across the floor:  happy, blissful, exuberant, conceited, arrogant

List of general character mannerisms

• bounce foot
• check watch, check e-mail, check current devices
• clean glasses (on cloth, under water, on clothes, with spit)
• cross and uncross legs
• dance (hop or bounce) from foot to foot
• doodle
• draw
• fiddle with radio or music device
• fiddle (play) with rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings; twirl them; take them off, put them on; play with jewelry clasps
• freeze (cease moving)
• hold and stroke pets
• laugh, cry, smile, sniffle
• shudder, tremble, quiver, twitch, shake, wiggle, wriggle through
• sigh, hold your breath
• sneeze
• squirm (in seat)
• talk to self
• take notes
• tap on phone (or other communication devices)
• tilt (tip) chair back

Developing distinctive gestures

Gestures are a part of non-verbal communication and can add depth and realism to a character. A well-chosen gesture can demonstrate confidence, vulnerability, or any other trait you wish to convey.

Imagine a character who frequently runs their fingers through their hair when stressed or someone who uses expansive hand movements when they’re excited. These gestures can be used to set the tone of a scene, offering visual cues that enhance the reader’s understanding of the character's emotions.

Gestures related to head movement

• cocked his head:  curiosity, smart-alecky, wondering, thoughtful
• cocked his head left and rolled his eyes to right corner of the ceiling:  introspection
• droop of his head: depressed, downcast, hiding true feelings
• nodded vigorously: eager
• tilted her head to one side while listening:  extreme interest, possibly sexual interest

Gestures related to the mouth and jaw

• a lackluster smile:  feigning cheerfulness
• cigarette hung immobile in the mouth: shock, lazy, uncaring, relaxed casualness
• clenched his jaw at the sight:  angered, worried, surprised
• curled her lips with icy contempt
• expelled her breath in a whose:  relief, disappointment
• gagged at the smell: disgust, distaste
• gapped mouth stare:  surprised, shock, disbelief
• gritted his teeth:  anger, irritation, holding back opinion
• inhaled a sharp breath:  surprise, shock, fear, horror
• licked her lips:  nervous, sexual attraction
• lips primed: affronted, upset, insulted
• lips pursed for a juicy kiss
• lips pursed like she’d been chewing a lemon rind: dislike, angry, irritated, sarcasm
• lips screwed into: irritation, anger, grimace, scorn
• lips set in a grim line: sorrow, worried, fear of the worst
• pursed her lips:  perturbed, waiting for a kiss
• scarfed down the last biscuit:  physical hunger, greed
• slack-mouthed:  total shock, disbelief
• slow and sexy smile:  attraction, seductive, coy
• smacked his lips: anticipation
• smile congealed then melted into horror
• smile dangled on the corner of his lips: cocky, sexy
• smirked and tossed her hair over her shoulder:  conceit, sarcasm, overconfident
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit: sarcasm, conceit
• spewed water and spit: shock
• stuck out her tongue: humor, sarcasm, teasing, childish
• toothy smile:  eagerness, hopeful
• wary smile surfaced on her lips

Gestures related to the nose

• nose wrinkled in distaste/at the aroma
• nostrils flared:  anger, sexual attraction
• nose in the air:  snooty, haughty

Gestures related to the face in general

• crimson with fury
• handed it over shame-faced
• jutted his chin: confident, angry, forceful
• managed a deadpan expression:  expressionless
• muscles in her face tightened:  unsmiling, concealing emotions, anger, worried
• rested his chin in his palm and looked thoughtful
• rubbed a hand over his dark stubble:  thoughtful, ashamed of his appearance
• screwed up her face:  anger, smiling, ready to cry, could almost be any emotion
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit: conceit, derision, scorn

Gestures related to the arms and hands

• a vicious yank
• arm curled around her waist, tugging her next to him:  possessive, prideful, protective
• bit her lip and glanced away:  shy, ashamed, insecure
• brandished his fist:  anger, threatening, ready to fight, confident, show of pride
• clamped his fingers into tender flesh:  anger, protective, wants to inflict pain
• clenched his dirty little fists: stubborn, angry
• clapped her hands on her hips, arms crooked like sugar bowel handles:  anger, demanding, disbelief
• constantly twirled her hair and tucked it behind her ear:  attracted to the opposite sex, shy crossed his arms over his chest: waiting, impatient, putting a barrier
• crushed the paper in his fist:  anger, surrender, discard
• dived into the food: hungry, eager, greedy
• doffed his hat:  polite gesture, mocking, teasing
• doodled on the phone pad and tapped the air with her foot:  bored, inattention, introspection
• drummed her fingers on the desk:  impatient, frustrated, bored
• fanned her heated face with her hands: physically hot, embarrassed, indicating attraction
• fiddled with his keys: nervous, bored
• firm, palm-to-palm handshake:  confident, honest
• flipped him the bird: sarcastic discard
• forked his fingers through his hair for the third time:  disquiet/consternation, worry, thoughtful
• handed it over shame-faced:  guilt, shame
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig:  physical need to relieve himself
• limp handshake:  lack of confidence, lack of enthusiasm
• propped his elbow on his knee: relaxed, thoughtful
• punched her pillow:  restless, can’t sleep, angry
• rested his chin in his palm:  thoughtful, worried
• scratched his hairy belly and yawned:  indolent, bored, lazy, relaxed, just waking
• shoulders lifted in a shrug:  doubtful, careless discard
• slapped his face in front of God and country:  enraged, affronted/insulted
• snapped a sharp salute:  respect, a sarcastic gesture meaning the opposite of respect
• snapped his fingers, expecting service:  arrogant, lack of respect, self-centered
• sneered and flicked lint off his suit
• spread her arms wide: welcoming,  joy, love
• stabbed at the food: anger, hunger, determined
• stood straighter and smoothed his tie:  sudden interest, possible sexual interest
• stuffed his hands in his pockets: self-conscious, throwing up a barrier
• sweaty handshake:  nervous, fearful
• touched his arm several times while explaining:  sign of attraction, flattery, possessive
• wide sweep of his arms:  welcoming, all-inclusive gesture, horror

Gestures related to sitting or standing up

• collapsed in a stupor:  exhausted, drunk, drugged, disbelief
• enthroned himself at the desk:  conceit, pronouncing or taking ownership
• exploded out of the chair:  shock, eagerness, anger, supreme joy
• roosted on the porch rail like a cock on a hen house roof:  claiming ownership, conceit, content
• sat, squaring an ankle over one knee:  relaxed and open
• slouched/wilted in a chair and paid languid attention to:  drowsy, lazy, depressed, disinterested, sad, totally relaxed, disrespectful
• squirmed in his chair: ill at ease, nervous, needs the bathroom

Gestures related to laying down

• flung himself into the bed: sad, depressed, exhausted, happy
• prostrated himself: surrender, desperate, miserable, powerless, obsequious, fawning, flattering
• punched her pillow:  can’t sleep, angry, frustrated
• threw himself on the floor kicking and screaming: tantrum

Gestures related to the entire body

• body stiffened at the remark:  offended, angry, alerted
• body swayed to music:  dreamy, fond memories, enjoys the music
• bounced in the car seat, pointing:  excitement, fear, eager
• cowered behind his brother:  fear, shyness, coward, desperate
• curled into a ball:  sorrow, fear, sleepy, defensive
• heart galloping:  anxiety, joy, eager
• held his crotch and danced a frantic jig
• humped over his cane, each step shaking and careful: pain, aged
• inhaled a deep breath and blew out slowly: buying time to find words/thoughtful, reconciled
• quick and jerky like rusty cogs on a wheel:  unsure of actions, self-conscious, tense, edgy
• rocked back and forth on his heels:  impatient, cocky, gleeful
• manhandled the woman into a corner:  bully, anger
• slumped shoulders: defeat, depressed, sad, surrender
• stiff-backed:  priggish, haughty, affronted
• stood straighter and straightened his tie:  sexual interest, wants to make an impression
• stooped and bent: aged, arthritic, in pain
• stretched extravagantly and yawned:  tired, bored, unconcerned
• sweating uncontrollably: nervous, fear, guilt
• tall erect posture:  confidence, military bearing
• was panting now at:  afraid, exhausted, out of breath, sexual excitement

Creating habits as storytelling tools

Habits are routine behaviors that reveal a character’s background, lifestyle, and priorities. They offer a glimpse into a character’s day-to-day life and can serve as a foundation for plot development.

A character who carefully organizes their desk every morning may be revealed as someone seeking control amid chaos. Alternatively, someone who skips breakfast every day might suggest a busy lifestyle or a distinct dislike for morning routines.

Habits, much like quirks, serve to enhance character consistency. They add layers to the story and can function as subtle narrative devices that drive the plot forward or even act as catalysts for character transformation.

Habits related to character emotions

Agitation Pacing

• nail biting
• forced laughter 
• fidgeting with hair or clothing 

Aggravation 

• clenched jaw 
• crossed arms 
• pacing 
• tapping foot 

Aggression 

• curled upper lip 
• finger pointing 
• flared nostrils 
• leaning into someone else’s personal space 

Agitation 

• pacing 
• jerky movements 
• restlessness 
• wavering voice 

Anger 

• bared teeth 
• flared nostrils 
• stamping a foot 
• wide-legged stance 

Anguish 

• sweating
• trembling 
• cords standing out on neck 
• clenching jaw or grinding teeth 

Anxiety 

• fidgeting 
• wringing the hands 
• rapid, shallow breathing 
• clenching interwoven fingers 
• jerky movements 
• trembling hands 
• grinding teeth 
• rapid, shallow breathing 

Apprehension 

• pursed lips 
• audible breathing 
• tugging on an ear 
• scratching a non-existent itch 

Belligerence 

• clenched fists 
• fixed glare 
• jutting jaw 
• loud voice 

Concentration 

• fixed gaze 
• dilated pupils 
• fingers stroking chin 
• minimal dialogue 

Concern 

• pale face 
• visible sweating 
• wringing hands 
• fidgeting or jiggling keys, cell phone, or jewelry 

Confusion 

• stuttering 
• biting the lip 
• rubbing the chin 
• exaggerated swallowing 

Constraint 

• bowed head 
• minimal eye contact 
• stepping or leaning back 
• picking at lint or animal hairs on clothing 

Contemplation 

• relaxed posture 
• studying ceiling or toes 
• chewing on a pen or pencil 
• leaning back in a chair with arms behind the head 

Defeat 

• lack of eye contact 
• slumped posture 
• toneless dialogue 
• trembling chin 
• vibrating chin 
• sagging posture 
• non-responsiveness 
• staring at toes or hands 

Defiance 

• cocked head 
• grinding teeth 
• puffed-out chest 
• stony stare 

Denial 

• elevated eyebrows 
• raised voice 
• rapid speech 
• wide eyes 
• slack jaw 
• wide eyes 
• backing away 
• raising palms and shaking the head 

Depression 

• head in hands 
• hunched shoulders 
• shuffling feet, hands in pockets 
• lowered head, with gaze on ground or toes 

Desperation 

• biting bottom lip 
• darting gaze 
• pacing 
• tugging at hair 

Determination 

• clenched fists 
• jaw thrust forward 
• pushing up sleeves 
• steepled fingers 

Deviousness 

• rapid blinking 
• lack of eye contact 
• uuncharacteristic stuttering g
• gnawing on the inside of the cheek 

Disagreement 

• crossed arms 
• shaking head 
• twitching nose 
• one leg crossed over the other in a seated position 

Disappointment 

• hard swallow 
• shuffling feet 
• stolid expression 
• wincing or flinching 

Disapproval 

• tight lips 
• constricted pupils 
• outstaring someone 
• walking away without letting someone finish their sentence 

Disbelief 

• palm on chest 
• rapid blinking 
• turning pale 
• unfocussed gaze 

Discomfort 

• shuffling feet 
• pained grimace 
• rubbing the back of neck, chin, or forehead 
• repeatedly shifting body weight from one foot to the other 

Distraction 

• rubbing arms 
• clenching fists 
• adjusting clothing 
• audible exhalations 

Distrust 

• cocked head 
• interlocking fingers 
• clasping hands behind back 
• abbreviated greeting or handshake 
• doubt 
• squinting 
• chin tilted upward 
• scratching the neck 
• rubbing or touching the nose 

Doubt 

• biting the cheek 
• rocking on the feet 
• forcing the lips together 
• cramming hands in pockets 

Embarrassment 

• shuffling feet 
• flushed cheeks 
• coughing or stuttering 
• covering face with hands 
• coughing 
• excessive swallowing 
• tugging at clothing 
• wincing 
• blushing 
• coughing 
• sweating 
• wincing or flinching 

Exasperation 

• making a rude gesture 
• scoping out the ceiling 
• running fingers through hair 
• raising hands in an I-give-up gesture 

Fear

• flared nostrils 
• furrowed brow 
• rocking on heels 
• tightly clenched mouth 

Guilt 

• cracking voice 
• trembling chin 
• tugging at the collar or clothing 
• staring at the floor or one’s toes 
• cracking voice 
• grimacing 
• lip biting 
• quivering chin 
• humiliation 
• blushing 
• bowing the head 
• hiding the face 
• hugging oneself 

Impatience 

• crossing the arms 
• watching the door 
• repeatedly checking the time 
• standing akimbo (hands on hips, elbows turned out) 

Insecurity 

• closed posture 
• fiddling with hair or biting nails 
• hiding hands in pockets or behind the back 
• checking one’s breath behind an open hand 
• hugging oneself 
• tight-lipped smile 
• fiddling with hair or makeup 
• shifting weight from foot to foot 
• licking one’s lips 
• flawless personal grooming 
• smiling for no apparent reason 
• constant talking to others about one’s love interest 

Introspection 

• quiet mood 
• lowered head 
• glancing downward during a conversation 
• gazing past/around someone while speaking 

Irritation 

• arguing 
• crossing the arms 
• narrowing the eyes 
• raising the voice, cursing 
• stomping 
• snorting or sneering 
• ill-considered dialogue 

Loneliness 

• monotone voice 
• talking to oneself 
• watching sad movies or TV series 
• excessive time on the internet or playing video games 

Nervousness 

• unable to sit or stand still 
• unable to focus on conversation 
• tapping feet or drumming fingers 
• handbag or briefcase held in front of body 
• dilated pupils 
• drumming fingers 
• excessive blinking 
• rapid breathing 

Oppression 

• slow, soft speech 
• teeth clamped on the upper lip 
• folded hands and bowed head 
• standing with weight on one leg, the other leg angled away from the body 

Pain 

• flinching 
• grimacing 
• clutching the painful area 
• writhing or bending over 
• panic Incoherence 
• rasping breaths 
• squeezing eyes shut 
• flinching at unexpected sounds 

Pessimism 

• one hand on hip 
• wide eyes 
• lopsided sneer 
• single arched eyebrow 

Pride (in someone else) 

• elevated chin 
• gleam in the eyes 
• pointing at the object of one’s pride 
• discussing the accomplishment with someone nearby 

Rage

• crossed-arm stance 
• flared nostrils 
• puckered forehead 
• physical or verbal attacks 

Regret 

• downturned lips 
• frail voice 
• attempting to explain or apologize 
• trying to right the wrong that caused the regret 

Relief 

• hesitant laughter 
• huge exhalation 
• relaxing posture, especially shoulders 
• gazing up, pressing palms together in a praying gesture 

Sadness 

• puffy face or eyes 
• runny makeup 
• snot on the upper lip or mustache 
• swiping at the nose with tissue 

Shame 

• flushed cheeks 
• moaning 
• vibrating chin 
• poor personal grooming 
• crying 
• involuntary moan 
• hiding the face with hair or a hat 
• scuffing a toe against carpet or dirt 

Skepticism 

smirking 

cocking the head 

wrinkling the nose 

narrowing the eyes 

wrinkled nose 

hand gesture of dismissal 

condescending smile 

cutting someone off in mid-sentence 

Stubbornness 

• white knuckles 
• fixed stare 
• set jaw 
• tapping foot 
• uncertainty 
• shrugging 
• rubbing the chin 
• tugging on the lip 
• interrupting one’s own dialogue 

Sympathy 

• at a loss for words 
• sad smile 
• verbal offer of assistance 
• murmuring optimistic platitudes in a soothing tone

Uncertainty 

• biting on nails or lips 
• twiddling thumbs 
• holding steepled fingers to lips 
• glancing away during conversation 

Unease 

• insomnia 
• trembling 
• tense muscles 
• inability to concentrate 
• clammy hands 
• picking at food 
• licking or biting the lips 
• repetitive actions that accomplish nothing 

Worry 

• poor sleep habits 
• poor personal grooming 
• puffy eyes with dark pouches beneath 
• calling the police or other support services

Tips for Writing Character Quirks, Mannerisms, Gestures, and Habits

Avoid overloading a character with too many quirks or habits, as this can make them appear unrealistic or caricature-like. Choose a few defining traits and weave them naturally into the narrative.

Make sure quirks and habits contribute to character development. They should mirror or contrast with the character's journey, offering insights into their growth or struggles.

Once established, maintain consistency in portraying these traits. This helps build authenticity and allows readers to form a stronger connection with the character.

Quirks and mannerisms can also depict relationships between characters. How one character reacts to another’s habits or quirks can reveal the dynamics of their relationship.

Pay attention to the people around you, as well as your own behavior. This can inspire realistic and relatable traits that resonate with readers.

Complete list of character ticks, mannerisms, gestures, and habits

• Abdominal jerking, tensing
• Adjusts clothing 
• Amplitude of speech
• Animal sounds (cow, dog, etc)
• Ankle flexing
• Apraxia
• Arm flailing, flapping, flexing, jerking
• Arranging things in a specific Charorder
• Baby Talk
• Barely audible muttering
• Barking– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Belching
• Bending to touch ground
• Bites nails
• Biting others
• Biting self (lip, arm, etc)
• Biting things
• Body jerking
• Body slamming
• Burns self
• Calling out saying “hey, hey”, “wow” etc
• Cannot get started – see perseveration
• Chewing on clothes
• Chronic negativism
• Collecting both useless and useful ojbects
• Complex respiratory (breathing) patterns
• Contamination concerns
• Contracting all muscles at the same time
• Coprolalia – uttering socially unacceptable words or phrases
• Copropraxia – making obscene gestures
• Correcting
• Coughing
• Counting
• Cracks knuckles
• Cuts self
• Dancing
• Defensiveness
• Dystonic postures
• Eating – see food
• Echolalia – repeating other’s words or statements
• Echopraxia
• Evening up – arranging objects in specific orders – is not a tic.  See compulsions
• Exactness – arranging objects in a specific order
• Exaggerated exhalations, catches in breathing
• Exaggerated inhalations, catches in breathing
• Eye blinking
• - rapid eye blinking
• - prolonged eye blinking
• - unusual eye blinking
• - eye rolling (upward or side to side)
• - eye squinting
• Facial contortions
• Facial grimacing
• Finger movements
• Food – needs food arranged on plate a certain way, needs to eat foods in a certain order
• Food – won’t eat certain foods
• Foot dragging, stamping, tapping, shaking, stomping, stepping backwards
• Frowning
• Germs, concerned about germs
•  Getting stuck
• Grunting– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Gurgling
• Gyrating
• Hair tossing
• Hair twisting
• Hand clapping
• Hand washing
• Head banging
• Head bobbing
• Head jerking
• Head tossing
• Hiccupping
• Hissing– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Hitting
• hit or by stopping just short of hitting the person.
• Hitting objects – see hitting
• Hitting others – see hitting
• Hitting self – see hitting
• Hoarding
• Honking – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Hopping
• Humming
• Injures self
• Jaw, abnormal movements, snapping
• Jumping
• Kicking
• Kissing
• Knee bending, knocking
• Knuckle cracking
• Laughing
• Leg jerking, kicking
• Licking – self, others, objects
• Looping
• Making “tsk” and “pft” noises
• Making funny facial expressions
• Making guttural sounds
• Making unintelligible noises
• Moaning– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Mouth twitch
• Muscle tensing
• Nail biting
• Negativism
• Noisy breathing
• Nose twitching
• Ordering – arranging objects in a specific order
• Pallilalia – repeating one’s own words
• Patterns – doing things in patterns
• Perfectionism
• Perseveration
• Picking at lint
• Picking at sores
• Pinching
• Pouting
• Pulling at clothes
• Rage 
• Rapid jerking of any part of the body
• Reads signs, license plates, credits in movies
• Reassurance Seeking
• Repeating rituals
• Repeats actions or movements of others
• Repeats parts of words
• Repeats phrases
• Repeats words
• Ritualistic behaviours
• Rituals
• Saving seemingly useless objects
• Scratching
• Screaming– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Screeching
• Seeking assurance
• Self injuries
• Shivering
• Shoulder shrugging
• Shouting – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make
• Skipping
• Smacking– some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make. 
• Smelling fingers or hands, food, other people
• Sniffing
• Snorting
• Somersaulting
• Speech atypicalities such as speaking in unusual rhythms, tones, accents etc.
• Spitting
• Squatting
• Squeaking – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Squealing – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.
• Standing on the toes of one foot and twirling the body
• Stooping
• Straightens things – arranging objects in a specific order
• Stuttering
• Sucking
• Superstitions – avoids things with number 13
• Symmetry – arranging objects in a specific order
• Table banging
• Talking to oneself
• Taps objects, self
• Tearing books
• Tearing paper or books
• Teeth clicking, grinding
• Tensing parts of the body
• Toe Walking
• Thoughts of violence
• Throat clearing
• unnecessary throat clearing
• exaggerated throat clearing
• Throwing things
• Tongue clicking or clacking
• Tongue thrusting
• Touching
• Touching objects (or self)
• Twirling
• Twirling in circles
• Uttering out of context phrases or words – see Coprolalia
• Walking in a pattern
• Walking on toes
• Washing hands
• Whistling
• Worry – minor errors,
• Writhing movements
• Yelling
• Yelping – some vocal tics are sounds that a person would not normally make.