Which option correctly describes how to use quotation marks for dialogue?

• A. Quotation marks are optional when writing dialogue.
• B. Quotation marks can be replaced with parentheses for dialogue.
• C. Quotation marks should enclose spoken words by a character; start new quotes for new speakers.
• D. Quotation marks are used to denote sarcasm.

Answer: (C)

Quotations marks show exactly what a character says and who is speaking. Put the spoken words inside quotation marks, and when another character speaks, start a new line with a new pair of quotation marks to indicate the change in speaker. This keeps dialogue clear from the narration and makes it easy to follow who is talking.

Remember punctuation rules inside dialogue: if the spoken sentence ends with a question or exclamation, that mark stays inside the closing quotation marks. If the dialogue tag comes before the spoken words, you place the comma after the tag and then begin the quotation. For example, He said, "I'll be there soon." If the line itself ends with a question, as in She asked, "Where are we going?" both the question mark and the quotation marks show the exact spoken words.

Quotation marks aren’t used to convey sarcasm by themselves; tone or context does that, while quotation marks simply indicate speech.