Using Dashes to Indicate Breaks in Dialogue

The video tutorial teaches the use of dashes in dialogue to indicate breaks in thought or tone. It explains the purpose of dashes, provides examples, and outlines formatting rules. The tutorial includes exercises for students to practice identifying and using dashes correctly in dialogue, helping them visualize how dialogue might sound when spoken.

What is the primary purpose of using dashes in dialogue?

• To show a sudden change in thought or tone

• To indicate a pause for emphasis

• To separate items in a list

• To end a sentence abruptly

How wide should a dash be when used in dialogue?

• The width of a capital letter 'N'

• The width of a lowercase letter 'm'

• The width of a capital letter 'M'

• The width of a lowercase letter 'n'

When placing a dash at the end of a sentence, how should it be formatted?

• With a space after the dash

• With spaces on both sides of the dash

• With a space before the dash

• With no space between the dash and the preceding word

In the example 'I just wish--', why is a dash used?

• To show the speaker suddenly stopped speaking

• To indicate the speaker was interrupted

• To show the speaker is unsure

• To indicate a pause for dramatic effect

What should you consider when deciding to use a dash in dialogue?

• If the sentence is too long

• If there is a break in thought

• If the speaker is whispering

• If the sentence is a question

In the dialogue 'I wish-- never mind, it could never happen', what does the dash indicate?

• A change in the speaker's tone

• A sudden interruption in thought

• A pause for effect

• A continuation of the same thought

Why is it important to use dashes correctly in writing?

• To make the text easier to read

• To increase the word count

• To make the text look more professional

• To help the reader imagine the dialogue as spoken