Punctuating Dialogue

Front

What is dialogue punctuation?

Back

Dialogue punctuation refers to the use of specific punctuation marks to indicate spoken words in writing, 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 pause in dialogue?

Back

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

Front

How do you punctuate a question in dialogue?

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If a character asks a question, the question mark should be placed inside the quotation marks.

Front

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'.

Front

How do you punctuate an exclamation in dialogue?

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If a character exclaims something, the exclamation mark should be placed inside the quotation marks.

Front

What is the correct way to write: 'She said, 'Hello''?

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The correct way is: 'She said, "Hello."' with double quotation marks for the spoken words.

Front

What is the rule for punctuation when a dialogue tag comes before the spoken words?

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If the dialogue tag comes before the spoken words, the spoken words should start with a capital letter.

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

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If the sentence ends with a dialogue tag, the spoken words should end with a comma, and the tag should start with a lowercase letter unless it's a proper noun.

Front

What is the correct punctuation for: 'I can't believe it' she said?

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The correct punctuation is: 'I can't believe it,' she said.