Showing Not Telling: Characterization

There are two ways to reveal a character and establish their personality; Directly and Indirectly. By far the most interesting, engaging way is Indirectly.

WAYS TO INDIRECTLY INTRODUCE A CHARACTER:

1. What the character says 
(“I don’t care much for fighting,” he said, backing away.)   
We can tell they dislike fighting.

2.The character’s physical appearance 
(He wiped his calloused hands on his worn burlap jacket.)
His hands tell us he lives a rough, poor life, which is also supported by the worn jacket.
 
3.Their feelings/thoughts 
(I wish summer would come back. This blasted cold freezes my old bones, he thought.)
Old and hates the cold (What do you know, it rhymes!)

4.What other characters think/say about the character 
(“So serious for someone so young,” she laughed.)
The character is young and serious.

5.How the character acts/reacts 
(Without another thought, he dove into the fray, snarling and biting.) 
Impulsive and reckless

DIRECTLY INTRODUCING A CHARACTER:

1.The author directly comments on the character   

(The man was quiet and thoughtful, never seeking a fight.)

Um...he's quiet, thoughtful, and hates fighting. (Obvious...and kind of dull.)