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In a good story, like in real life, characters should talk, but not too much! What a character says should fit his or her personality. For example, a smart character should use “big words.” A shy character would say less than an outgoing one. A bully would not say nice things. You get the idea!
Think of how people you know talk, and spend some time listening to the differences in the way people talk. This will help you get good at writing dialogue. Notice that not only the words people say, but also how they say them makes a difference. Tell your readers how your characters speak, not just what they say. For example:
“I…I'm not sure I know that one,” Annie said timidly.
“Get back here now!” Mr. Williams shouted with a scowl.
Also remember that two characters with different personalities will say the same thing in different ways.
“That movie was a simply superb example of comic genius,” said Mortimer.
“That movie was really fun,” said Mandy
Show your reader who your characters are by having the characters speak for themselves. This is much more interesting than reading about characters in stories with little or no dialogue. Dialogue makes your characters come alive!
Now that you've learned about the main parts of a story, it's time to put your characters into action in a short story of your own. Have fun creating!
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