What are dialogue tags and how do I use them?

What are dialogue tags and how do I use them?

Dialogue tags are phrases that attribute speech to a character, like 'he said' or 'she asked.' They help clarify who is speaking.

Can you give me some examples of effective dialogue tags?

Sure! Examples include 'he whispered,' 'she shouted,' and 'he replied.' These add emotion and context to the dialogue.

When should I avoid using dialogue tags?

Avoid using dialogue tags when the speaker is clear from the context or when the dialogue flows naturally without them.

Are there any alternatives to traditional dialogue tags?

Yes! You can use action beats, like 'She smiled and said,' which can show character emotion and movement instead of just stating who is speaking.