If you're a writer, artist, or roleplayer, you know how important it is to keep track of your Original Characters (OCs). Whether you have just one beloved OC or an entire universe full of characters, organizing their details can get messy fast.
I used to scribble down my character descriptions in random notebooks and lost them more times than I can count. Then, I discovered the magic of Google Docs for creating and storing OC templates, and it changed the game for me.
In this article, I'll share why Google Docs is perfect for OC templates, what essential elements your character sheet should include, and how to create an OC template on Google Docs to get you started. Let’s dive in!
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Why Use Google Docs for OC Templates?
You might be wondering, Why not use a physical journal or a fancy character-building app? While those are great options, Google Docs offers unique advantages that make it my go-to tool for organizing characters. Here’s why:
Reason 1: Free & Accessible
Google Docs is 100% free and works on any device. You can create, edit, and access your OC template from your phone, tablet, or laptop—no matter where you are.
Reason 2: Cloud Storage & Auto-Save
One of my worst habits was losing my character notes. With Google Docs, everything is saved in real time to the cloud, so you’ll never lose progress. Even if your laptop crashes, your OC template will be safe.
Reason 3: Customizable Formatting
I love that I can make my OC template as simple or detailed as I want. From bold headers and bullet points to color-coded sections and tables, Google Docs gives you total creative control.
Reason 4: Collaboration Features
If you co-write stories or create roleplay characters with friends, Google Docs lets you share your OC template with others. You can even allow suggesting mode so they can leave comments without making direct edits.
Reason 5: Easy Organization
Keeping track of multiple OCs? No problem! You can store all your character sheets in a Google Drive folder and even hyperlink documents together for quick navigation.
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Essential Elements of an OC Template
A good OC template should include all the key details that make your character unique. Over the years, I’ve refined my template to cover everything from physical appearance to personal quirks. Here’s what I recommend including:
1. Basic Information
- Name: (Full name, nickname, or alias)
- Age: (Actual age vs. apparent age, if applicable)
- Gender & Pronouns: (He/Him, She/Her, They/Them, etc.)
- Species/Race: (Human, elf, demon, etc.)
- Birthdate & Zodiac Sign: (Fun for personality insights!)
2. Appearance
- Height & Weight
- Eye & Hair Color
- Skin Tone & Features (Scars, tattoos, freckles, etc.)
- Clothing Style (Casual, fantasy, gothic, futuristic?)
- General Vibe (How would someone describe them at first glance?)
3. Personality & Traits
- Strengths & Weaknesses (Every hero needs flaws!)
- Habits & Quirks (Do they bite their nails or hum when nervous?)
- Fears & Motivations (What drives them? What holds them back?)
- Likes & Dislikes (Food, music, hobbies, etc.)
4. Backstory & Relationships
- Family & Friends (Who shaped them the most?)
- Major Life Events (What defining moments led them to who they are now?)
- Role in Story/Setting (Are they a hero, villain, sidekick?)
5. Skills & Abilities
- Combat Skills or Fighting Style
- Powers (if applicable)
- Hobbies & Talents
6. Miscellaneous
- Catchphrases or Signature Quotes
- Fun Facts (Any secrets they wouldn’t tell others?)
- Reference Images or Playlists
How to Create an OC Template on Google Docs?
Setting up an OC template in Google Docs is super easy! Here’s my step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Open Google Docs & Start a New Document
Go to docs.google.com and select Blank Document.
Step 2: Use Headings & Subheadings
Organize sections using Heading 1, Heading 2, and bullet points so you can navigate quickly.
Step 3: Add a Table for Quick Information
I like to use a 2-column table to separate categories. Example:
Trait | Details |
|---|---|
Name | Alex Storm |
Age | 25 |
Pronouns | They/Them |
Species | Human |
Step 4: Use Checklists for Traits & Preferences
You can create a list with checkboxes for personality traits:
✅ Brave
✅ Stubborn
✅ Loyal
❌ Impulsive
Step 5: Insert Images or Links
Upload reference images directly into the doc or add links to Pinterest boards.
Step 6: Customize with Colors & Fonts
For a color-coded OC template, highlight different sections (e.g., red for weaknesses, green for strengths).
Step 7: Save & Share
Once you're happy with your OC sheet, you can download it as a PDF or share it via a link.
Advanced Tips for OC Templates
Once you have the basics down, here are some extra tips to take your OC sheets to the next level:
🎨 Use Google Docs Add-ons
- Lucidchart: Great for creating family trees or character relationship maps.
- Grammarly: Helps with grammar and typos in your character descriptions.
📂 Organize Multiple OCs
- Create a Google Drive folder for all your characters.
- Use hyperlinks in Docs to jump between different OCs easily.
🎵 Embed YouTube or Spotify Playlists
- Add a playlist link with songs that match your OC’s personality.
Wrapping Up
Using an OC template on Google Docs has completely transformed the way I organize my characters.
It keeps everything structured, safe, and easily accessible—whether I’m brainstorming a new character at home or making last-minute edits on my phone.
If you’ve been struggling to keep track of your OCs, I highly recommend giving this method a try.
Here are some other useful resources from our blog that you may like to read:
1. How to Add an Upside Down Question Mark in Google Docs
