Quality of a good Chinese name

At present, Chinese name is often referred to as 名字 (Ming Zi). In olden days, 名 (Ming) and 字 (Zi) are not the same. Ming is formal name while Zi is familiar name, usually given when the child reaches age 20. Since it is impractical to have more than one names, the 名 (Ming) and 字 (Zi) are now used together to refer to one’s own name.

A good name should have the following qualities:
1. The name should have good sounding and it is easy to pronounce.
This could be achieved by avoiding similar consonant, vowel and tone.
2. It should have a good meaning.
Usually, the meaning of names has auspicious meanings and expresses the hopes and ideals of the parents.
3. It should be easy to remember.
4. It should leave a good impression on people.
5. It should be elegant.
An elegant name is not crude or shallow in meaning.
6. The surname and the name in its written form should appear balanced and stable.
Imagine if the surname and the name are made up of characters with too many strokes, when viewed from a distance the name will resemble three black spots as the strokes in each character are congested together.
If the characters of a name have too few strokes, it will appear weak and lacking in form.
Therefore, a good visual form name has a balanced number of strokes.