Dialogue Punctuation

Front

What is dialogue punctuation?

Back

Dialogue punctuation refers to the specific marks used in writing to indicate spoken words, such as quotation marks, commas, and exclamation points.

Front

When should you use quotation marks in dialogue?

Back

Quotation marks are used to enclose the exact words spoken by a character.

Front

What punctuation mark is used to indicate a question in dialogue?

Back

A question mark (?) is used at the end of a spoken question within quotation marks.

Front

How do you punctuate a statement in dialogue?

Back

A period (.) is used at the end of a spoken statement within quotation marks.

Front

What is the correct way to write: 'What time does the game start?' asked Nanette.

Back

The correct way is: "What time does the game start?" asked Nanette.

Front

How do you punctuate dialogue when a speaker is interrupted?

Back

Use a dash (—) to indicate the interruption.

Front

What is the rule for capitalizing the first word in dialogue?

Back

The first word of a complete sentence in dialogue should be capitalized.

Front

How do you format dialogue that is split between two sentences?

Back

Use quotation marks at the beginning and end of the spoken words, and capitalize the first word of the second part.

Front

What is the correct punctuation for: Rhonda said, 'I love dogs.'

Back

The correct punctuation is: Rhonda said, "I love dogs."

Front

What punctuation follows the dialogue when a speaker tag is used?

Back

A comma (,) is used before the closing quotation marks if the dialogue is followed by a speaker tag.