What is dialogue?
It is the words that characters use in a story. It is also called conversations between the characters. Dialogue is vital to the story as it shows the readers thoughts, ideas, and emotions. It gives the reader an insight into the events of the story. Good dialogue is important and should not be mundane. It must be informative, interesting, and natural.
Why is dialogue important in a story?
- It helps to build the interest of the readers and keep them engaged in the story.
- Dialogue makes it easier to read, write, and understand the context of the story or novel.
- It helps to reveal information about the characters with the language they use and the way that they use this language. As a writer, you must make sure that the dialect patterns, and lingo of each character is consistent and unique.
- It helps to build the conflict and advance the plot. Dialogue can show the internal struggles that the characters face.
- Gives background information. The characters can disclose information about self or other characters, and this keeps the action flowing. Of note, when using dialogue to share background information, it is best to use sensory details and do not give information that the characters.
- Dialogues can help to build suspense where the character gives hints that force the readers to think about the events that will come.
- It improves the mood and atmosphere.
- Dialogue allows the writer the freedom to have the characters talk about things or events that happen outside of a scene but are pertinent to the development of the story.
- Dialogue is used to give outcomes without sounding as though you are writing a report.
Download PDF for more more on how to punctuate dialogue, format dialogue, write good dialogue and more. Click on the link below. OR Copy the URL below and paste in your browser.
Discover more from Think and Write for CSEC English A and B
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

