Distinguish between round and flat characters.

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The key idea is character depth and development. A round character is complex and fully developed, with many traits, inner conflicts, and the capacity for growth or change. They feel like real people, showing different sides of their personality under different circumstances. A flat character, by contrast, is simple and one-dimensional, defined by a single trait or a small set of traits, and they don’t undergo meaningful change in the story.

In practice, authors use round characters to explore themes through realistic choices and evolving relationships. Flat characters often serve a supporting role: they highlight another character’s qualities, advance the plot, or fulfill a specific function without needing to be deeply explored.

So the best description emphasizes complexity and development for round characters, and simplicity and lack of change for flat characters.