How important, to both character and plot development, is your character’s backstory?
First answer: Don’t fall into the trap of wanting to share your character’s entire life story. Not only is it unnecessary, but it’ll also bog down the plot.
Second answer: Leave the backstory simmering on the back burner. If something in your character’s backstory doesn’t contribute in any way to character/plot development, cut it out. Readers don’t want, nor do they need to know about events in your character’s life that don’t add anything to the story or the character’s motives.
Only spare the important details, because those are the ones that will move the plot and explain the character’s motivations.
Tell me your thoughts below!