What are the common themes and tropes in manga featuring an unpopular guy and a popular girl?

One common trope could be the popular boy seeing something unique in the unpopular girl that others don't. Maybe it's her kindness or a hidden talent. Another could be the girl changing her image to fit in, but realizing her true self is more important in the end. Sometimes, the relationship faces opposition from the boy's popular friends.

Well, usually it involves the unpopular guy having some hidden qualities that the popular girl discovers and appreciates.

One common trope is the makeover. The popular guy might help the unpopular girl change her appearance, which then leads to a newfound confidence in her. Another is the 'opposites attract' situation where their different social statuses in school create interesting dynamics. For example, they might get paired up for a school project and slowly start to fall for each other despite their initial differences.

Often, it might focus on protection and a contrast in strength. The big guy could be the protector while the small girl brings a sense of vulnerability and innocence.

One common theme could be the exploration of age-gap dynamics and the challenges that come with it. Tropes might include the older guy being protective or the younger girl being rebellious.

In these fanfics, the 'shared interest' trope is often seen. For example, they both love a certain type of music or literature that no one else around them cares about. This shared passion becomes a strong bond. Then there's the 'unexpected encounter' trope. They might meet in a really strange or unexpected place that makes their connection seem fated. And the 'protective instinct' trope can also be present. The popular guy feels the need to protect the unpopular girl from the mean remarks or actions of others.

Often, it involves the guy having hidden qualities that the girl discovers. Maybe he's kind or has a special talent.

The theme of transformation is often present. The unpopular girl might transform in terms of her confidence and social standing. The popular guy may also transform in his values and how he views the world. For instance, in some novels, the popular guy starts to see the importance of authenticity and kindness which he learns from the unpopular girl. This mutual transformation is what makes the relationship in these novels so interesting and engaging.

Often, there's a theme of the younger girl finding maturity and growth through her relationship with the older guy. Also, societal judgment and challenges they face due to the age gap are common.

It could have storylines like the girl's struggle to fit in, the guy's confusion over his feelings, or their joint efforts to overcome social barriers.