Punctuating Dialogue

Front

What is dialogue punctuation?

Back

Dialogue punctuation refers to the rules and conventions used to punctuate spoken words in writing, ensuring clarity and proper structure.

Front

When should you use a comma in dialogue?

Back

A comma is used to separate the dialogue from the tag (e.g., 'he said', 'she asked') when the dialogue is followed by a speaker tag.

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How do you punctuate a sentence that ends with dialogue?

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If the dialogue ends a sentence, place the punctuation inside the quotation marks and follow it with the appropriate punctuation for the sentence.

Front

What is a speaker tag?

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A speaker tag identifies who is speaking in the dialogue, 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 dialogue is a question, place the question mark inside the quotation marks and follow it with a speaker tag if needed.

Front

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

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

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What is the rule for punctuating dialogue that is interrupted?

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When dialogue is interrupted by a speaker tag, use a comma before the tag and continue the dialogue after the tag, starting with a lowercase letter.

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How do you punctuate a command in dialogue?

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For commands, place the punctuation inside the quotation marks and follow it with a speaker tag if necessary.

Front

What is the correct way to write: 'I love ice cream' she exclaimed?

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The correct way is: 'I love ice cream!' she exclaimed.

Front

What punctuation is used to indicate a pause in dialogue?

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An ellipsis (...) is used to indicate a pause or trailing off in dialogue.