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 attribution to the speaker.

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence that ends with a quotation?

Back

If a sentence ends with a quotation, the punctuation mark (like a period or exclamation mark) should be placed inside the quotation marks.

Front

What is the correct way to attribute dialogue to a speaker?

Back

Attributing dialogue to a speaker typically involves using a comma before the attribution and starting the attribution with a lowercase letter unless it begins with a proper noun.

Front

When should you use a comma in dialogue?

Back

A comma is used in dialogue when the spoken words are followed by an attribution (e.g., 'he said', 'she asked').

Front

What is the correct punctuation for a question in dialogue?

Back

If the spoken words are a question, the question mark should be placed inside the quotation marks.

Front

How do you punctuate dialogue that is interrupted?

Back

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

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, but if it follows an attribution, it should be lowercase unless it's a proper noun.

Front

How do you punctuate a quote within dialogue?

Back

Use single quotation marks for the quote within the dialogue and double quotation marks for the main dialogue.

Front

What is an example of correct dialogue punctuation?

Back

"I can't believe it's already Friday!" Sarah exclaimed.

Front

What is the difference between a period and a comma in dialogue?

Back

A period ends a complete thought, while a comma indicates that the dialogue continues after the attribution.