The Mary Sue/Gary Stu Test is a diagnostic tool that helps identify characters who may be unrealistic or overly idealized. These tests evaluate attributes such as backstory, motivations, flaws, and relationships. Using this test, authors and readers can assess whether a character exhibits characteristics commonly associated with Mary Sues or Gary Stus, enabling them to refine and strengthen their creations for a more balanced and believable narrative.
How to Structure a Mary Sue / Gary Stu Test
A Mary Sue or Gary Stu is a fictional character who is unrealistically perfect and lacks any flaws. They are often seen as self-inserts of the author and can be a sign of poor writing.
There is no one definitive way to test for a Mary Sue or Gary Stu, but there are some common signs to look for. The following structure will help you create a comprehensive test that will identify potential Mary Sues or Gary Stus in your writing.
1. Character Attributes
- Appearance: Is the character physically perfect, with no flaws or imperfections?
- Personality: Is the character always kind, compassionate, and understanding, with no negative traits?
- Background: Does the character have a tragic backstory that explains their perfect nature?
- Skills: Is the character unrealistically skilled and talented, with no areas of weakness?
- Relationships: Is the character loved and admired by everyone they meet?
2. Character Dynamics
- Role in the story: Is the character the center of attention and the focus of the plot?
- Interactions with other characters: Do other characters defer to the character and always follow their lead?
- Conflict: Does the character face any real challenges or obstacles?
3. Conclusion
- Overall impression: Does the character seem too perfect to be believable?
- Author’s intent: Did the author intentionally create a Mary Sue or Gary Stu?
Scoring
The following table provides a scoring system for the Mary Sue / Gary Stu test.
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0-5 | The character does not show any signs of being a Mary Sue or Gary Stu. |
| 6-10 | The character shows some signs of being a Mary Sue or Gary Stu, but not enough to be conclusive. |
| 11-15 | The character is likely a Mary Sue or Gary Stu. |
Question 1:
What is the purpose of the “Mary Sue/Gary Stu test”?
Answer:
- The “Mary Sue/Gary Stu test” is a tool used to evaluate fictional characters for the presence of traits commonly associated with self-insert characters known as “Mary Sues” and “Gary Stus.”
Question 2:
How do the questions in the “Mary Sue/Gary Stu test” assess a character’s traits?
Answer:
- The test poses questions that examine a character’s flaws, strengths, motivations, and relationships with other characters. It evaluates whether the character is too perfect or idealized.
Question 3:
What are the main characteristics of a “Mary Sue” or “Gary Stu” character?
Answer:
- “Mary Sues” and “Gary Stus” are typically depicted as exceptionally talented, beautiful, and morally superior. They often lack significant flaws and possess unrealistic abilities or influence, making them less relatable and believable to readers.
Well, there you have it! The Mary Sue/Gary Stu test. If you’re feeling a little self-conscious about your character after taking this, don’t worry – it’s just a bit of fun. The most important thing is to create a character that you’re happy with, and that you think your readers will enjoy. Thanks for reading, and be sure to visit us again soon for more writing tips and advice!