Dialogue is tricky. Too stiff, and your characters sound like textbooks. Too casual, and it reads like a transcript of your last group text.
Good dialogue does three things:
- Reveals character
- Advances the story
- Feels natural
Here’s how to master it — without losing your mind or turning your characters into walking exposition machines.
1. Listen to How People Actually Talk
Dialogue should feel natural, not perfect. Listen to conversations around you — note pauses, interruptions, slang, and quirks.
Example:
Instead of:
“I am going to the store now, would you like to come with me?”
Try:
“Hey, heading to the store. You coming?”
Shorter, casual, and believable.
2. Each Character Needs a Distinct Voice
Characters shouldn’t all speak the same way. Consider:
- Vocabulary: Do they use big words or slang?
- Tone: Are they sarcastic, cheerful, formal, anxious?
- Speech patterns: Short sentences, long monologues, frequent questions?
Example:
Sarcastic teen: “Oh sure, because that sounds like a brilliant plan.”
Optimistic friend: “Come on, it could be fun! Let’s try.”
Distinct voices make dialogue recognizable and engaging.
3. Show, Don’t Explain (Yes, Even in Dialogue)
Characters can reveal information naturally. Avoid dumping backstory.
Telling (bad):
“I grew up on a farm, and that’s why I know how to ride horses.”
Showing (good):
“Hold still!” he shouted, tightening his grip as the horse bolted. “See? You’re doing fine. I grew up doing this.”
Your dialogue shows experience while keeping the scene dynamic.
4. Use Subtext
People rarely say exactly what they mean. Subtext makes dialogue interesting and realistic.
Example:
Instead of:
“I’m angry at you.”
Try:
“Well, that was… considerate of you.” (With a sharp glance)
Readers infer the emotion, making the exchange more engaging.
5. Break Up Long Speeches
Nobody talks in paragraphs. Break dialogue with:
- Action beats: “She shrugged and sipped her coffee.”
- Short reactions: “Really?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.”
- Interjections or interruptions
Example:
“I don’t know if—”
“Wait, you said what?”
“I mean… it’s complicated.”
This keeps dialogue lively and readable.
6. Use Dialogue to Advance Plot
Every line should have purpose:
- Reveal a secret
- Introduce conflict
- Develop relationships
- Move the story forward
Avoid filler like “Hi, how are you?” unless it serves a purpose.
7. Punctuate and Format Correctly
Correct punctuation keeps dialogue clear and professional. Quick reminders:
- Use quotation marks
- New paragraph for each speaker
- Include action beats or dialogue tags sparingly
Example:
“I can’t believe you did that.”
“Believe it,” she said, smirking.
💬 Final Thoughts
Good dialogue is character in motion. Listen, give each voice personality, sprinkle in subtext, and let dialogue reveal information naturally. Read it aloud — if it sounds like real people (or at least believable humans), you’re on the right track.