Character analysis essays don't have just one format. However, let me give you some tips that could serve as a character analysis essay outline or a "checklist" of possible topics you could discuss: 1. Start with the simple details. You can begin a character analysis by providing a simple, clear description of who your character is. A non-fiction essay is a short text dealing with a single subject. A typical essay format includes: An introductory paragraph, ending with a thesis statement, that is, the purpose of the essay.