A Guide for Fanfic Authors

Avatar: A Guide for Fanfic Authors

Hey there everybody. I've spent the last few months writing fanfiction for Avatar, and in the course of it I've become familiar with just how wild some fanfics can be. I also noticed that while some of these fanfics tend to be absurd, the criticism of them does little to help.

In order to try and help some authors improve, I've decided to try writing this guide for fanfiction writers.

Note: I suspect that in the course of writing this, it will only be beneficial to fanfictions pertaining to "Avatar: the Last Airbender."

But first, I feel I should answer a question that I suspect a few of you are asking by now:

"Who is this guy to tell my anything about writing?"

My Credentials:

I have none. I'm a college student who writes fanfiction. There is no reason for you to be listening to me, unless you agree to some point I make.

You're a writer. You write what you're comfortable with, what makes you happy. I'm just hoping to try to point some stuff out that I think will help to make fanfiction more agreeable.

On the subject of writing that which makes you comfortable; the intention of this guide is in no way, shape or form to tell people how they should be writing. I encourage creativity and new approaches, and some people prefer to take a few steps further outside of canon than I would. More power to them, especially if they execute it well.

This guide will be updated constantly as I'm given new ideas and sections to add. I do not advise reading through the entire guide, it's over twenty pages long. My personal advice is to search through the guide for the sections that you feel will be of use to you.

With that said, let's move on!

Section One: Critiquing

Flaming does nothing to aid a writer, but neither does a trivial compliment. We enjoy words of support and encouragement; that goes without saying. But often a response will do little to actually help a writer improve.

There is a key difference between bad criticism and negative criticism.

Examples of bad criticism:

Negative	This fanfictions sucks so hard, I think you gave my eyeballs cancer. I'm serious. If I concentrate hard enough, I can hear my eyes screaming in pain.
Positive	OMG this is so good!!1!one!

Examples of good criticism:

Negative	Alright, this is ridiculous. Toph wouldn't act like a frightened little girl just because Momo got bit by a were-penguin. She tends to be more stoic, less energetic in her actions. Try thinking of her as having a colder personality when you write.
Positive	Wow, I really like what you did here. I especially like how you let your OC develop subtly instead of forcing a sudden change on them.

If you're going to criticize someone, whether it's negative or positive, you should be applying some tip or note that will allow them to understand what worked and what didn't. If they need something said in order for them to improve, say it.

A few general tips on criticism:

-It's true, sometimes flaming can be funny. But it's useless to the writer, and you run the risk of coming off as a jackass.

-If you don't have something nice to say, that doesn't necessarily mean you shouldn't say anything at all. But you should be giving some form of advice instead of pointing out mistakes.

-If a writer has done something that hundreds of others have done, don't take all the pent up frustration at the sheer dumbassery of it out on said writer. Chances are they weren't looking to shoulder the blame.

-For the love of ninja Buddha; go back. Read it. Make sure it makes sense. There are some responses I've gotten that make me think two people tried typing two separate thoughts on the same keyboard.

-No matter what your experience, no matter how new the author is to writing, do not give suggestions on which direction the plot or characters should go. You can comment on everything else, but those things are the author's choice alone. Comments like that tend to be ignored and regarded as pompous.

Section Two: Bending

If there's one thing we've seen a ton of in the fanfic community, its "_____bending." People taking anything beyond the four canon elements and inserting a character capable of manipulating that.

These characters and authors are usually met with a bunch of flames, and some even find their way over to the avatarsues livejournal listing.

Note: Avatarsues is hilarious, and in paying attention to reoccurring traits in the fanfictions that are listed there and reading through her criticisms, you can improve as a fanfic author. The key is paying attention.

I'll start this section with an explanation of the bending disciplines in Avatar, then move on to _____bending cases that have the potential to work. (There are very few of them) I will then move on to cases of _____bending that cannot work. More importantly, I will explain why.

Canon Bending Notes:

The nations and bending disciplines of the canon universe lead us to believe their origins to be western, specifically Greek. The Greek elements included the following:

-Fire
-Wind
-Water
-Earth

However, to say for certain that the show follows the Greek elemental arrangement would be nothing more than a guess.

While the Greeks concluded their estimation of the elements as the four, many other cultures included a fifth into their perception. Hinduism, ancient Japan and many medieval cultures estimated a fifth element, "ether." ("Aether" in Hinduism, "heaven energy" in most medieval documentation)

"Ether" is the energy that the heavens and spirits are composed of, impossible to find within the mortal realm.

The canon realm has an established relationship to the spirit world, one where there is no capacity for standard bending. Though there is and perhaps never will be any confirmation of "ether" being some facet of the spirit world, it makes it impossible for us alone to determine which elemental classification the canon universe follows.

The only certain method of determination is asking the show's creators. I have no idea if there have been any interviews or quotes on their part giving us an answer on this, but I'll update the guide accordingly if there is.

_____Bending that has the potential to work:

Many people will read the title of this section and propose that I am completely retarded. I agree, there are no _____bending styles that will function in the canon universe. This section is reserved for bending styles that I feel have potential, but would have to follow a specific execution.

Metalbending and Woodbending

These two find themselves grouped together because they follow the same logic. The basis for these two styles finding themselves in this section is the following:

Western elements:

-Fire
-Wind
-Water
-Earth

Chinese elements:

-Fire
-Earth
-Metal
-Water
-Wood

The existence of Aang and the airbenders establishes that it is impossible for wood and metal to serve as bending disciplines within the canon universe, for it gives definite evidence that the Chinese elements are not involved.

However, their standing as elements does give them more clout than the other _____bending forms. Whereas most other ______bends are ridiculous, these do follow a definite elemental set.

It is for this reason that I consider these two bends to be somewhat feasible. However, it comes with this definite limitation: Metal, wood and wind cannot exist as elemental disciplines within the same realm. Therefore, to be executed properly, these two can only exist in an alternate universe where airbending has and will never exist.

Etherbending

With the spirit world comes many possibilities, including the distant possibility of a fifth element; ether. (Also known as "Aether" or any word that is arguably synonymous with "heavenly energy")

It is for this reason that a character capable of etherbending would be more feasible than other instances of _____bending. However, much like woodbending and metalbending, this follows specific guidelines.

The character would have to be of the spirit world, having no ties or origin in the mortal world.

As Aang cannot bend any of the standard elements while in the spirit realm, it can be inferred that any character capable of etherbending would be rendered powerless upon entering the mortal world. This brings us to another key point.

While the character would be capable manifestation within the mortal world, they would be inclined to follow the same rules of other spirits. (Hei Bei, Won Shi Tong, etcetera) These spirits show signs of being fixed to a specific point or purpose while manifested, so too shall any spirit in the mortal realm until canon proves further possibilities.

Note: As of right now, these are the only _____bending styles I have come across that seem somewhat feasible. Others will be addressed as they're developed or imagined, something the Avatar fan community has shown an incredible talent for.

_____Bending that doesn't work:

Many people have pointed out the ridiculous nature of some fanfictions incorporating _____bending, but few take the time to explain why such styles are infeasible. Like the former section, I will group bending styles by logic.

Animalbending, Beastbending, Dreambending, Mindbending, Psychebending, Telekinesisbending, Wisdombending

The reason these seven _____bending disciplines find themselves grouped together is because they involve some manipulation of the mind and actions of other living beings.

Such bending styles incorporate no trace of the four elements, and therefore are impossible within the canon realm. Furthermore, it involves the manipulation of something that has no physical manifestation, as is the case with the canon elements.

If you wish to write a character capable of gaining the favor of animals and people, the proper approach is to give the character traits of empathy, not ESP.

Bloodbending, Icebending, Lavabending, Lightningbending, Thunderbending

These five _____bending styles find themselves grouped together due to their being related to canon styles.

While the manipulation of ice is a confirmed ability of waterbenders, the control of blood within an opponent's body is something we have yet to witness. The Nickelodeon website has listed it as a technique of master waterbenders, thus securing it in this category.

The manifestation of Avatar Roku in Aang's body on Crescent Moon Island gave us an example of lava being used as part of a bending technique. However, we have yet to receive confirmation as to whether this is an Avatar ability or a technique of advanced earthbending. Regardless of which is the case, it establishes that the technique already exists in canon, thus rendering it a trait of a particular bending discipline rather than something capable of standing on its own. Further reasononing for lavabending's infeasibility lie within a second section further down the listing.

The discharge of lightning is technique master firebenders have displayed in the show time and time again. Thus, it stands not as a separate bending style, but merely a capability of one of the already existing standard disciplines. Thunderbending is listed alongside this, for the two are often synonymous in author's execution.

These five _____bending disciplines are aspects of canon disciplines, lacking the variety and potential to stand as a balanced developed style.

Chibending, Energybending, Lifebending

These _____bending styles have been grouped together due to their involving the manipulation of life energy, or "chi."

"Chi" is a standard concept found throughout East Asia, its existence confirmed in canon. However, though canon has acknowledged and applied the existence of chi within the canon universe, no manipulation of it or visible physical manifestation of one's life energy has occurred. (And will most likely not occur)

However, many feel inclined to include the manipulation of life energies on the basis of distant possibility. Such is a flawed argument, for if the manipulation and control of life energy was possible within the canon universe, there are many characters that would have already made some attempt at mastery of such to further their conquests. (Any of the Fire Lords, any of the Avatars, etcetera)

Corporalbending, Formbending, Shapebending

These _____bending styles have been grouped together due to their involving improvement or altering of the physical body.

The only characters to have exhibited any capacity for the transformation of their physical bodies are those whose origins lie in the spirit world. Though characters have displayed the capacity for controlling the elements to enhance or shield their bodies, no master or Avatar has demonstrated any ability to physically alter their actual being.

Though the existence of the standard bending disciplines defies the rules of physics, science dictates that any such altering of the body would be at least painful, if not lethal. The human body has many organs within it, each delicate and susceptible to tearing.

The application of physically altering ones body is best reserved for characters from the spirit world.

Crossbending, Dualbending, Doublebending, Maruchoibending, Stormbending, Lavabending

This category of _____bending styles has been reserved for actions or manipulations that are available only to the Avatar.

The manipulation of more than one element is a popular trait among original characters, yet such is fundamentally flawed. No canon character has ever demonstrated the ability to manipulate more than one element beyond the Avatar.

The argument can be made that such characters potentially exist, and have yet to be discovered or acknowledged by canon. If such were the case, these characters are few and far between, as indicated by such abilities having no place in common knowledge of the characters.

If two characters of different nations were to produce offspring, it is most likely the case that they would be capable of bending the element that is most prominent in their spirit and personality rather than both.

In regards to stormbending and lavabending, these disciplines would require the manipulation of more than one element. (Lava is nothing more than molten rock. In this regard, it can be related to both and fire, thus identifying it as something that only an Avatar would be capable of manipulating)

If you truly desire to develop a character capable of such traits, my personal suggestion would be to try to write an Avatar character prior to Kyoshi. The canon universe has revealed a long line of avatars, each with many stories to be told. Feel free to explore this history.

Darknessbending, Lightbending, Shadowbending

This section has been reserved for _____bending styles pertaining to light and shadow, or anything synonymous to the two.

The concept of "dark and light" is a very popular concept throughout literature and media. The two have no acknowledged place in canon, yet many have incorporated such traits into their fanfictions.

Darknessbending and shadowbending are fundamentally flawed, for shadow and darkness exist only in the lack of light. Therefore, it can be inferred that to manipulate these would be based more on the manipulation of the light around it, or its removal.

Secondly, though these two are visible and definite presences within daily life, they have no tangibility. To manipulate them is to manipulate an image, something incapable of introducing any change to a scenario. Furthermore, it is hard to consider the manipulation of these when they are intangible.

Flowerbending, Naturebending, Plantbending

I was tempted to include these three _____bending styles among the category of "things only the Avatar has the capacity for," yet lack of canon evidence has led them to their own category.

The growth of nature and plants has been used by many fanfiction authors, yet this too is a bending style that is incapable of standing on its own.

Many argue the point that the execution of such would be a combination of earthbending and waterbending. This falls into the flaw of a character capable of manipulating two elements, as addressed a few entries prior.

This is a separate section from the one pertaining to things that only the Avatar is capable of due to there being no evidence of an Avatar ever causing the growth of plants of any sort. Earth can be manipulated and made fertile, but it alone lacks the seeds to birth flowers or plants, no matter what level of water is applied to it.

This is all in regards to the growth of plants. The manipulation of such has been proven by canon in the Froggy Swamp, such abilities being a trait of advanced waterbending.

Lovebending

The manipulation of any emotional quality or character trait pertains to no elements or arguable source. Such is impossible and is ill-advised as a trait in any character.

Matterbending

Though the Avatar world is filled with amazing characters that perform impossible feats, it still adheres to some basic rules of physics.

In regards to matterbending, this defies the physical law of equivalent exchange. Nothing is capable of growing or forming without subtraction from another source.

The suspension of disbelief in regards to Avatar does have a limit; personal recommendation would be to have your character defy only laws of physics or science that canon has.

Tips for those who wish to incorporate some innovative or original trait to a bender:

Remaining within the boundaries of that which canon has defined is a safe bet, yet you shouldn't feel limited to it. If you would really like to bring something fresh to a character or to the universe, it is possible. There are tips I would recommend, however.

-Do not allow your character to be skilled in more than one bending discipline. (Unless they themselves are an Avatar prior to Kyoshi) These characters are rarely taken seriously, and are almost always instantly labeled as a "Sue." Your character should adhere to one of the four bending disciplines.

-(In regards to the former tip) Don't be afraid to write an Avatar character. There is a lot of unexplored history to the canon universe, and many stories to be told.

-If you are looking to apply some innovative trait, make sure it is something that can be argued or thought of as an extension of the bending discipline your character follows. (Example: It's not feasible for your character to be a "bonebender" capable of giving themselves claws, but a waterbender might be able to trail water from their fingers and freeze it to execute similar effect)

-A good rule of thumb is to try and envision one of the canon characters being capable of performing the feat. (Toph, Katara, Iroh, Gyatso, etcetera)

Section Three: Writing Within Canon:

Many fanfiction writers find themselves wanting to involve canon characters or events in their writing, whether it's for their original character or just for a select set of canon characters. Many of these fanfic authors have fallen into certain pitfalls or traps of writing that have led to flames and bitterness on the part of the readers.

Whatever style you write in, regardless of which approach you take, there are certain methods and tips you can use to further your writing and make the characters act more accurately to their canon selves

Writing Canon Environments

Perhaps there was a particular setting of the show that stuck out to you that you'd like to explore further. Perhaps an idea played out in your head when you saw the characters enter a particular region that they never touched upon. No matter what your reason, writing the canon environments can be enjoyable, yet provide a few challenges.

-People have seen Omashu twice now. They are well aware of what the city looks like, have a feel of its layout. Don't feel obliged to describe an area in painstaking detail when the show has already done well to establish it.

-Just because your fanfiction involves Meng does not necessarily mean lady Wu must make an appearance. If you feel it's natural for the character you're writing for to interact with another canon character, then write for them. If you feel the two would have no interaction, don't go out of your way to include them.

-An environment is influenced by those residing within it. The Gan Jin will have a different impact on a region than the Zhang would. (The two tribes from the Great Divide) Make sure to think about who is occupying the region when you write, as well as what influence they would have on the area.

-The story exists beyond your characters. You may be writing dialogue for four characters in a village square, yet there are dozens of people mingling about as they speak. Be sure to keep them in mind so you have a clear picture.

-If anything has changed, mention it. The reader will be confused if they have to understand something that's different from before as the characters are interacting with it.

Writing Original Environments

Maybe you want the characters to enter a village they've never set foot in before, or establish the birthplace of your original character. Either way, you must write the environment. The freedoms you have with it will be fun, yet more difficult than writing for a canon background.

-The nation will influence the style. From what we've seen of the Fire Nation, it tends to have a fancier, more intricate design to its architecture than the villages of the Earth Kingdom and North Pole. Secondly, where the other three nations have a more horizontal layout, the Air Nomads seemed to prefer vertical structure. Keep the region in mind as you write.

-The regions are Asian. Keep in mind that there are no western style homes, the Avatar world's roots lie in the East. Many fanfiction authors tend to forget this. If you're unsure as to how a certain room or structure would look in East Asia, just google it.

-An area near Ba Sing Se will likely see less warfare than a village on the western coast of the Earth Kingdom. Location is important.

-There are only two canon cities to the Earth Kingdom. Creating a city or something large is interesting but infeasible; otherwise it would be common knowledge.

-Similarly, there are only four nations. Adding an entire landmass or country is a bit absurd.

-The people residing within your original environment will play a heavy hand in its wealth, standing and politics. Keep your background characters in mind, even if they never appear in your story.

Writing for Canon Characters

I started this guide a few hours ago, and almost immediately was asked how I would handle writing the "Writing for Canon Characters" section. It's a difficult subject that has become increasingly sensitive as more fanfictions are released that inaccurately depict canon characters.

I'm going to take this opportunity to once again note that I have no genuine credibility or authority in the writing field. These are tips to try helping others to improve.

With that said, I will try to move through this section tactfully and carefully while using examples to properly deliver the point. I will however open with this statement:

There is a level of pride and affection we invest into anything that we create, whether it be as artists or writers. Evidence of this can be seen in the defensive nature people bring to negative criticism of their original character.

I suspect that the love we have for our stories, our art and our characters is equal to, if not far less than, the love and appreciation that Michael Dimartino and Bryan Konietzko have for the world of Avatar and all those within it.

It is for that reason that my first note of advice would be to respect and appreciate that, and make no conscious effort to disregard or disrespect it.

With that said, there are particular tips that can be followed to improve your writing of canon characters.

-No character is limited to one emotion or trait. While Aang is typically optimistic and encouraging, he has more than once demonstrated frustration and sadness. A second example of this would be Toph, who tends to be stoic and determined, yet has already managed to demonstrate occasional distress and thoughtfulness.

-All major characters of the canon universe have demonstrated heterosexual preferences. If any character were to hypothetically demonstrate homosexual tendencies, it would have to be after a very long period of gradual, subtle and admittedly unlikely changes.

Note: This is no commentary on sexuality. It is observation of the canon tendencies of the characters and evaluation of such. If you prefer to write slash or wish to pursue writing a particular pairing, feel free to do so. But please make no argument of it being canon. That said, I also feel that no person who writes slash or pursues such a scenario should be greeted with animosity or flames.

-Death is a definite factor in the growth and evolution of the characters of the canon universe. If you choose to write a scenario in which a canon character dies, be ready to acknowledge it as a hypothetical situation that steps outside of canon, rather than argue its validity.

-Similarly, any romantic feelings a canon character has should obey the canon universe. Whether it's an original character or Jun the bounty hunter, Aang will most likely maintain his affection for Katara.

-Pairing one canon character with another is sometimes innovative and interesting, but such pairs are rarely interesting if the affection is sudden and without cause. If Zuko and Katara were to encounter one another, they would initially regard one another as enemies. It would take various circumstances and gradual change for the two to reconsider one another in any other light. Such changes would be gradual and subtle, not altered by one event or situation.

-Some canon characters have seen little or no development. Sometimes giving backstory to a character who appears in only one episode (In example: Jun, Teo, Haru, etcetera) leaves you many opportunities and liberties.

-In writing, I have found that the best evaluation as to whether a character is acting as they would in canon or not is to try to hear their voice reciting the written dialogue. If you cannot truly hear Katara saying "If we don't fight the werewolves now they'll complete their death ray," in your head, then it should most likely be removed.

Examples of Good and Bad Canon Character Writing

Bad - Katara looked towards Toph's eyes as she sit beside her, sighing inwardly as she wished the young earthbender could return such stares.

Katara has never, in any way shape or form, exhibited romantic feelings for Toph.

Good - Katara glanced towards Haru, still surprised that they had come across the small village once again. He returned the glance, turning back to his work quickly as a faint shade of red tinted his cheeks. She smiled softly, her cheeks warming as she glanced aside.

Though Katara and Haru never displayed any feelings beyond friendship, their mannerisms towards one another left possibility for a relationship to be inferred or written about.

Bad - (Chapter Three) "I love you," Zuko stood knee deep in the water as the rain washed over him, Katara standing a few feet before him.

The nature of Zuko and Katara's relationship makes it that the two would not have such sudden and intense affection for one another, even if it were not mutual.

Good - (Chapter Twelve) "...Do you think things would have been different, if there was no war...?" she looked up from the fire towards him, her eyes soft. He turned his attention towards it, staring as the flames danced before him. "...Yes," he admit quietly.

If Zuko and Katara were to demonstrate any affection for one another, it would come gradually. Secondly, Zuko's character makes it that he wouldn't outright tell someone such a thing.

Bad - "You'll follow me or I'll kill you," Iroh glared.

Iroh would never say something so direct and angrily. His character is much more reserved and laid back.

Good - "I ask that you follow me," Iroh looked calmly towards him, his eyes holding a stern hope. "I do not wish to fight if such can be avoided."

I am often paranoid that I cannot write for canon characters, but I feel that Iroh would be more inclined to say something to this effect.

Bad - Sokka stood over Katara's body, his eyes wide with terror as blood stained the ground around her.

Katara isn't going to die. Any investment in such a notion should label itself as a hypothetical scenario.

Good - Iroh drank tea.

This could really happen.

Bad - Zuko's eyes went wide, barely recognizing his long lost childhood friend.

Any key moments of Zuko's past have been displayed to us in canon. Adding characters to the timeline or past of a character is disruptive and hard to follow or envision.

Good - "I want to go too!" Jun balled her fists as she stared up towards her father. He smiled down at her, the Shirshu snorting slightly as it came to a halt. "Papa has to work. I'll come back, promise," he reassured her.

There has been no development on Jun, seeing aspects of her past or present could be potentially interesting.

Creating Original Characters:

Note: I have purposely divided the creation of original characters and writing for them into two sections, since I feel it would be too huge if they were combined as a section.

I am biased towards this section because I much prefer creating original characters to writing canon characters' dialogue.

This section will provide tips and examples on methods for creating original characters to apply to your fanfiction.

-Your character is human, and as such will share the same traits. There are things they will be ignorant about, things they'll fail to understand. They will get angry, sad, distant, happy and determined. The environment and people within it will have definite influence on their upbringing.

-Your character should have one strength, not several. A character skilled in swordplay is interesting, but one who is advanced at both swordplay and a master earthbender is stretching it.

Note: This applies specifically to younger original characters. Middle aged and elderly characters have the advantage of experience, and thus it becomes more believable that they have such skill.

-The character is of the Avatar world, and is therefore Asian. Their hair will be black, brown, or in some instances red. (It depends on the nation they originate from) Only extreme cases have led characters to have hair of a light color. (Yue, after receiving part of the moon spirit's essence)

Note: Arguments are sometimes made that characters will have hair of differing colors through the use of dyes. This is a reasonable point, but such dyes would typically be expensive and require constant effort. Most characters would resign to not bothering with such.

-Similarly, the name will be of Asian origin. The exceptions to this include self-appointed names, such as "Jet, Smellerbee, Longshot," etcetera.

-Subtlety is strength. Forcing sudden change upon your character is chaotic and disruptive. Allowing the things around them to mold them slowly makes them more realistic and believable.

-Not every character must suffer through tragedy. Your character can exhibit just as much determination and strength after a healthy upbringing, and will be less inclined to suffer mental scars. If you do choose to have your character suffer through tragedy, keep in mind that it will weigh down on their actions, jade them or at least render them emotionally distant.

-Your character can be charismatic and interesting, but shouldn't be written with the intention of seducing or becoming the romantic interest of a canon character.

-A background character can require just as much energy and consideration as one with dialogue. Everyone in the area of your story should have some sort of imprint upon your character.

-As addressed in an earlier section, if you choose to make your character a bender, they should be capable of bending only one of the four elements. The exception to this is if you choose to make a character that is an Avatar prior to Kyoshi.

-Your character should not have some position or importance that influences canon. Any positions of particular importance would have been addressed in canon, if they have not already.

-Relation to any of the canon characters can be interesting, but is often disruptive and senseless. You should develop your character with the intention of having them be capable of development regardless of the presence of canon characters.

-Your character should never exceed any major canon character in terms of skill or power. A character capable of defeating Azula is unbelievable and often comes off as pompous or irritating.

-Your character should not be based off of you, but feel free to incorporate aspects of yourself and your personality into them.

-If your character holds some high rank or prestige at a young age, there should be some significant or amazing circumstances to it.

Examples of Good and Bad Characters:

Bad - Jane stepped forward angrily, the leaves and plants shooting off into the distance as the wind spiraled around her, fire consuming her hands.

"Jane" is a blatantly western name that has no place in the canon world. Secondly, she displays ability in two different bending disciplines, something that only the Avatar is capable of.

Good - Chin took a stance quickly, his palms turning and thrusting forward as the earth before him buckled, the Fire Nation soldiers taken off guard. He had practiced the technique for weeks, grinning at the opportunity to apply it.

Not only is "Chin" a name that fits into the canon realm, but his earthbending technique is something that took him time to develop. There was no instantaneous skill.

Bad - Her blonde hair trailed down to her waist, her two swords and axe fastened to her back by a whip. She was fourteen, her age contradicting her waterbending skill.

Firstly, the character has blonde hair, something that would not be found in the Avatar world. Secondly, this character has too many strengths. Being capable with a whip, two swords, axe and waterbending at the age of fourteen is both unbelievable and leads your character to not be taken seriously.

Good - The private saluted nervously as General Fong called out to him, unsure as to proper protocol. At nineteen years old he had seen more conflict in Omashu than he had ever expected.

The character is nineteen and holds the rank of private, making his status believable. Secondly, he is nervous before the Earth Kingdom general. This is relatable, making the character more likeable.

Bad - "The Fire Nation killed my family and tortured me until I escaped," he smiled. "Oh...I'm...I'm so sorry," Katara stuttered as she stared towards the youth. "Nah, it's alright," he rested his hands behind his head as he leaned back against a rock.

No character would suffer something so grievous without suffering major psychological damage. A character that suffers through great tragedy and acts normally or optimistically without some underlying psychosis is completely unbelievable.

Good - "Ha ha, check Momo out," he smiled towards the flying lemur. Katara and Aang turned their attention, Sokka raising an eyebrow in suspicion of the sudden change in subject.

A character less willing to discuss such things is more realistic, but it should not become something that's never addressed.

Bad - "This is my cousin," Toph introduced the girl as Sokka blushed, grinning.

No character should be made with the purpose of serving as romantic interest to a canon character, much less hold an immediate and total effect on any character, canon or not. Secondly, it tends to be the case that having a character be related to a canon characters serves as a crutch.

Good - "This is my friend from back home," Toph introduced the girl as Sokka folded his arms, his face giving a look of suspicion.

It is advisable to shy away from relating characters by blood, but to have casual encounters between an original character and one from canon is often fine, assuming it doesn't become a crucial or overpowering part of either's motivation. Secondly, any new character should be treated with the same attitude the canons would treat any other newcomer.

Bad - The Avataress stood before them, draped in white cloth.

Introducing characters or positions that would completely alter canon is something to be avoided completely by any fanfiction writer.

Good - "Avatar Aang, the people of my village saw your bison in the sky; they asked that I guide you and your party to the village," Lee bowed towards the group.

Your character being entrusted with some task or given some level of importance within their community is believable and does well as a plot motivator.

Bad - She stood over Azula, victorious.

Azula has demonstrated tremendous power and determination. No original character should be capable of even rivaling her, much less defeating.

Good - Azula stood smugly over the girl, disappointed that she had not even broken a sweat.

The most likely scenario.

Writing for Original Characters:

Creating a character is the first step of an original character. The second is writing for the character, allowing them to influence and be influenced by the environment around them.

This section will give you tips on how to improve your writing for original characters.

-Personality traits of your character will manifest in their speech patterns and what they say. Give consideration to what an appropriate response from your character would be.

-The canon universe has dialects and regional mannerisms to it, but typically avoids modern slang. Your character should follow this trait.

-People are not immediately influenced by that which they hear or say. Give your characters time to process that which another has said to them, even if it will have intense effects later.

-Do not alter the responses or mannerisms of other characters out of desire for a particular outcome. If your character insults Sokka, he would be expected to insult back rather than sulk. If they offer a barbed insult to Zuko, expect an explosive reaction, not suddenly inspired affection.

Section Four: Plots

Many fanfiction writers have attempted various plots and storylines to their fanfics. Some of these have worked out well and established a quality story that's enjoyable to read.

Some of these result in outrageous and often ridiculous stories that find their way to the avatarsues livejournal listing or result in flame wars.

This section will cite specific plot examples and gives reasons as to why they are effective or ineffective.

Crossovers:

The purpose of this section is to review crossovers and identify their typical weaknesses, as well as suggestions to mark a proper crossover execution.

This section includes stories in which the author or characters of our world find themselves in the Avatar world.

It is my personal advice to avoid crossovers, the stories often too chaotic or overpowering the suspension of disbelief. Though I have never written a crossover story, I will do what I can to aid others who wish to still pursue this particular plot.

The Bridge Between Worlds

There have been many different methods of transportation between worlds, some including but not limited to:

-A sentient powerful being that chooses to transport the characters.
-Sucked in through some medium within our world.
-An open portal between the two worlds.
-Waking up in the Avatar world.

These tend to be clich� and fall short of inspiring the reader. However, there are certain approaches that can be taken to try for a more plausible crossover.

A friend and I discussed at length what would be involved in one character crossing over from the canon universe to an alternate universe. We determined there to be two feasible explanations to any crossover.

The first of these is some connection or passage through the spirit world. Due to a lack of canon evidence, there is little indication to how such a thing would work. However, the alternate side of this is the lack of canon evidence serving to establish no boundaries to adhere to. Personal advice in this instance would be to approach it tactfully and subtly.

Second of these is for there to have been no bridge in the first place, for the characters to have naturally been part of the other universe since their birth. This eliminates it from being a true crossover, but gives opportunity to take new or interesting approaches with a character. The negative to this is that it tends to overwhelm or confuse the reader, and most authors typically lose interest early on into the project.

Though my personal advice is to avoid crossovers, if you should choose to pursue it, my recommendation would be to utilize a method of crossover that is tame and not as outrageous as past examples have been.

Tips for Crossovers

If you have chosen to continue with the crossover plot idea, there are certain tips and rules to adhere to in order to keep your story orderly and easier to follow.

-If the two universes have clashing traits or backgrounds, one must give way to the other. (Aang would be unable to bend or at least limited in the Naruto universe, just as Naruto's ninja abilities would be stunted if not faded in the Avatar world)

-Once a character enters another universe, they are in effect newborns in terms of skill. Any character entering the Avatar world would have no sudden or intense skill in bending. They would start from scratch, just as any other bender would.

-One character entering another character's world would not change the entire world's setup. (Citing the example of Naruto again; Kakashi's energy is of the lightning type. Lightningbending would not become an option due to Kakashi's presence in the Avatar world)

Background Plots:

Some people have chosen to write fanfictions based off of major or sometimes even minor canon characters in order to try and offer a view of them in a new or different light. These can be effective, but there are still pitfalls to be avoided.

-No background fanfiction should ever introduce some character or change that would have dramatic results that would guide the character to behave or act differently in the canon timeline.

-The more important the character is to the canon, the less freedom you will have to work with their history. Characters that have appeared less or perhaps even once can be given more attention and history.

-Any character or situation should still obey the rules of writing for original and canon characters.

Section Five: Writing Tips

I have managed to go over a lot in this guide, some that will come off as trivial and some that most will view as matters of common sense.

This last section has been reserved for general writing tips that have yet to be covered in the rest of the guide.

-Avoiding excessive swearing is advised. The canon characters do not swear, and therefore the easiest assumption to make is that such language does not exist in the canon universe. Swearing may be appropriate in particular fanfictions, but the level should be appropriate to the target audience or category.

-Similarly, it can be assumed that certain actions and behaviors that are not present in the canon universe could come into play within fanfiction. As is the case with profanity, these should be appropriate to the target audience.

-Authors notes are great and give the reader your thoughts on the chapter. They should be reserved for the beginning and end of your story however; nowhere in-between. Notes in the middle of the story are disruptive and distracting.

-Giving a proper critique is important, but so is giving a proper response.

-It is rude, arrogant and a bit unintelligent to instantly assume any critique or feedback you find disagreeable to be of a greater scope than your fanfiction. When someone disapproves of a relationship you've implied between Sokka and Aang, it is more likely a comment on their opinion of those specific characters than their opinion on the issue of gay marriage.

-Please make some effort to type correctly; it makes it easier and more enjoyable for your reader. Finding typos and grammatical errors tend to be irritating.

-Shorthand has no place in fanfiction. Avoid "lol, omg, k, u," and any other abbreviations.

-Never be afraid to delete something, even if you feel it is crucial to your story. Everything can be improved with time and further consideration.

-Always be sure to read through your story once you've finished it. This will allow you to check for errors, as well as for sections that are confusing or hard to follow.

-The writers of Avatar had many sources of inspiration that drove the canon universe and its history. If something inspires you, try to find some new and innovative way to apply it.

-Feedback is excellent, but never become discouraged if you don't receive it. If you are satisfied with what you've written, if it makes you genuinely happy, hold onto it and keep going.

In Closing:

I hope that at least one person takes some positive advice or finds something useful in this guide. If I've done that, then I'll be very happy to have written it.

This will be updated as I find new things to post or find new insights and tips to provide.

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the following:

-Distant Horizon, for the vast reservoir of information on Mary-Sues and Stu's within their fanfiction forum.
-Avatarspirit.net, which allowed me to properly check the spelling of "Shirshu."
-Kimchicrusader, who read through parts of the guide and advised me to certain additions.
-Babbs, whose "N Commandments of Avatar Fanfiction" helped to inspire and remind me of parts of this.
-Avatarsues Livejournal listing, for not having my fanfiction listed. Just kidding, I'm grateful to Avatarsues for their constant updates, allowing me to get a better understanding of the patterns fanfictions follow.
-Isaia. For supporting and guiding me, always.

Take care, thanks for reading!