NPC Creation
For most NPCs, simpler is better.
Name, sex, race, class.
Extra performance traits:
high/med/low voice, manner of speaking (strict, loose), germanic/latin/french word choice
Ideals, desires, fears
Disposition to players
Skills, equipment, mannerisms
Use NPCs as a viewpoint into the world. Give them opinions about the current events, other characters, and their way of life.
Show the players how they are perceived within the world
Resources
Keep a basic weapon list on the side for a character
Character lists online, or in books