Punctuating Dialogue

The rules for punctuating dialogue can be tricky. This is because you have to take into account two layers of punctuation:

1. The internal punctuation of whatever the person is saying.

2. The punctuation of the sentence around the dialogue that tells you who’s speaking and how—also called a dialogue tag.

Here are some tips to help you remember what punctuation to use when in dialogue.

Use a comma . . .

• after the dialogue tag but before the dialogue.

  • ex: She said, “That was cool.”
    

• after the dialogue but before the dialogue tag.

  • ex: “That was cool,” she said.
    

• when breaking up a complete sentence with a dialogue tag.

  • Place one comma at the end of the first part of dialogue and one after the tag.

  • ex: “That’s so cool,” she said, “because he’s so fast.”

  • ex: “Alex,” they said, “how are you?”

Do NOT use a comma . . .

• when there’s a question mark or exclamation point before the dialogue tag.

  • ex: “Where are you?” they asked.

  • ex: “I know where you are!” she shouted.
    

• when the following sentences is not a dialogue tag.

  • ex: “You’re so funny.” She giggled.

  • ex: “I know where you are.” He walked toward Billy’s hiding spot.
    

• when the dialogue tag is between two full sentences of dialogue.

  • ex: "You're so funny," they said. "I can't believe you're an accountant."

  • ex: "I know," he said. "I'm the best."

I hope that helps clear up any confusion about when to use commas in dialogue. Save this post for future reference!