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Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/47797
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Source: https://writers.stackexchange.com/a/47797
License name: CC BY-SA 3.0
License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Characters seem natural when they pursue their goals in a way that is consistent with their values. (Their actual values, not necessarily the values they give lip service to for the sake of social acceptance.) Characters seem natural when they act this way because that is how human beings act.

The problem with dialogue is that often the author is trying to accomplish something else as well: drop some information on the reader or move the plot along. In pursuit of those goals, they make characters say (and often do) things which do not promote their goals in a way that is consistent with their values. And when they do that, the dialogue sounds unnatural.

The litmus test here is actually pretty simple, as long as you understand your characters well enough to know what their goals and their values are. Simply ask, of everything you have them do or say, is that what a person with these values would do to pursue these goals in this situation? If the answer is yes, then the dialogue or action will seem natural. If it is no, nothing you can do will make it seem natural.

And, of course, if you don't understand your characters goals and values, you will never be able to make their actions or dialogue seem natural.

Original score: 1