Shikamaru has narrow brown eyes and a typical expression suggesting he is either bored or irritated. He has shoulder length black hair tied in a spiky ponytail. Shikamaru is naturally a lazy person and his inclination is to do as little work as possible. Although Shikamaru describes himself as "the number one coward", he has a strong moral compass and dedication to his friends. Shikamaru is extremely intelligent, both strategically and emotionally. Shikamaru is notably mature and blunt.