Here is an excellent, detailed decision tree that might help. This can help you determine the character class you want to play. With a character personality archetype in mind, consider how such a person would be likely to fight or react to a fight. Check out this article from the OverpreparedGM, Playing Against (D&D) Class Types. Sometimes it can be fun to play against type for a given class. However, you shouldn’t necessarily feel constrained by these types. The descriptions at left include suggestions of iconic characters from popular culture that represent each class. Is it their dogged determination? An unwillingness to compromise their principles? Their unbridled optimism? While you don’t have to recreate this character per say, consider the things you like about this character. What makes them special? Perhaps they are an aloof but impossibly gifted archer (Legolas, the Lord of the Rings trilogy) or a mother out for vengeance upon those who have wronged her and her child (Beatrix Kiddo, Kill Bill vol. To get started thinking about who your character is, consider the heroes or heroines you already love. Create an account through D&, the site from Wizards of the Coast that provides a free-to-use character builder and venue to purchase additional character options.
Download a free copy of the basic rules for 5E from Wizards of the Coast.To get you started with basics, here are a couple of links: This tutorial is designed to help make the process simpler, especially for a first time player. However, newer players - especially those who have never played - are sometimes overwhelmed with the number of options when creating a new character.
The possibilities are endless: the spellbook unfilled, the angst as yet indeterminate (shall my parents have been eaten by wolves? Fallen off a cliff in a desperate flight to freedom? Or oddly supportive, understanding, and - most shockingly - still alive?). Developing a new character - for a long-time campaign or even just a one-shot (a game played in one day) - is a fun and creative process.