Character Relationship Map Template

The Character Relationship Map template contains some simple placeholders for the main and supporting characters and lines to show how they relate. Feel free to add extra characters if you need them. Aside from the classic circular relationship maps created for most stories, you can also use them to explain:

• Traditional Family Trees: This style resembles a family tree, with the main character(s) at the center and lines branching out to depict their family members, including parents, siblings, and extended relatives. It's especially useful for stories with complex family dynamics, such as sagas or generational tales.
• Timeline-Based Relationships: This style combines a timeline with relationship connections. You can see how characters' interactions and dynamics change over time. It's great for tracking how relationships evolve throughout your story, especially in narratives with multiple time periods or flashbacks.

It's important to start with the central character, especially if your story revolves around one individual like a protagonist. Place their image and name in the center of the map.

Identify the secondary characters who play important roles in the story. These could be friends, lovers, antagonists, family members, or anyone who contributes to how the plot develops.

Now add in the supporting characters like co-workers and neighbours. These people may not be crucial to the main plot, but including them offers context, believability and depth to your story.

Now use lines and arrows to visually represent the relationships between your characters. For example, use a solid line for positive relationships and red lines for conflicts. Labels can also help explain what the relationship is such as family members, and partners or even describe the location where they live.

Use the pen tool to call out important characters in the relationship. This helps draw attention to their significance. Circle the heroes and put a cross through the enemies.