6. Make it natural and realistic
One of the most crucial aspects of writing dialogue is to make it sound natural and realistic. People don't always speak in complete sentences or perfectly structured phrases. Dialogue should reflect the way people actually speak, including interruptions, pauses, and colloquialisms. It should also match the character's personality, background, and circumstances.
Avoid overly formal or stiff dialogue unless it suits the character and the context. Use contractions, slang, and regional dialects if appropriate, but be mindful not to overdo it or make it difficult for readers to understand.
To make dialogue more engaging, consider incorporating subtext, where characters may say one thing but mean something entirely different. This adds depth and intrigue to their interactions.
Conclusion
Writing compelling and believable dialogue is a skill that can greatly enhance any story. By following these tips and adhering to the dialogue writing rules mentioned, you can create dialogue that brings your characters to life, advances the plot, and captivates your readers.
Remember to use quotation marks, give each speaker their own line or paragraph, make it clear who is speaking, vary speech tag use, use dialogue with a purpose, and strive for natural and realistic conversations. With practice and attention to detail, you can master the art of writing engaging dialogue that immerses readers in your story.