Punctuating Dialogue

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What is dialogue punctuation?

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

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When should you use quotation marks in dialogue?

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

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

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A comma is used to indicate a pause in dialogue, especially before a dialogue tag (e.g., 'he said', 'she asked').

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How do you punctuate a sentence that ends with dialogue followed by a dialogue tag?

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You place the punctuation mark inside the quotation marks before the closing quotation mark, followed by the dialogue tag.

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What is a dialogue tag?

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A dialogue tag is a phrase that attributes the spoken words to a character, such as 'he said' or 'she asked'.

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How do you punctuate a question in dialogue?

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If the spoken words are a question, use a question mark inside the quotation marks.

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What is the correct punctuation for this sentence: 'I love ice cream' she said?

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The correct punctuation is: 'I love ice cream,' she said.

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What punctuation should be used when a character shouts?

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An exclamation mark should be used to indicate shouting or strong emotion.

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How do you punctuate a sentence that starts with a dialogue tag?

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If the sentence starts with a dialogue tag, use a comma after the tag and start the spoken words with a capital letter.

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What is the correct way to write: 'I can't believe it' she exclaimed?

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The correct way is: 'I can't believe it!' she exclaimed.