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Writing and Punctuating Dialogue

Goal Punctuate dialogue correctly and use it to show character.

THE RULES

  1. Put spoken words inside quotation marks: "I'm hungry," said Ali.
  2. Punctuation goes INSIDE the quotation marks.
  3. Use a comma (not a full stop) before the speaker tag: "Let's go," she said.
  4. Start a new line each time a new person speaks.
  5. Questions and exclamations keep their mark: "Where are you going?" asked Mum.

EXAMPLE

"Did you finish the project?" asked Mr Chen.
Noah stared at his shoes. "Nearly."
"Nearly?"
"I'll have it tomorrow. I promise."

SAID IS NOT DEAD -- but use variety when it adds meaning:
whispered, muttered, snapped, called, admitted, shouted

DIALOGUE SHOULD DO A JOB

Use it to show character or move the story forward -- not for long chats about nothing.

PRACTICE

Punctuate correctly:

  1. where is my phone asked Leah
  2. it's on the table said Tom
  3. thanks she said grabbing it
Show answers
  1. "Where is my phone?" asked Leah.
  2. "It's on the table," said Tom.
  3. "Thanks," she said, grabbing it.

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