A dialogue is a conversation between two or more people. Dialogue is a crucial element of writing, in that it serves many functions:

• It helps the story progress, or changes its direction.
• It offers backstory.
• It reveals character.
• It can add humor, or pathos.

It can also be very tricky to write. When I show my children a story I’ve written, their most common comment is “Why do all your characters sound like you?”

Ideally, your characters should sound distinct from one another.

In an attempt to make my characters’ voices unique, I’ve given one a lisp. I’ve given another a catch phrase, what the heck.

I definitely do not have this whole dialogue thing down yet.

Luckily for you, you don’t have to rely on my lack of expertise, because the internet has a wealth of resources about writing dialogue. Here are some of the best articles I’ve found:

• Tips from Reedsy.
• Tips from the Jericho Writers.
• Tips from Jerry Jenkins. I especially like the suggestions under Step 4.
• Dialog that engages readers.
• Tips from MasterClass.
• Tips from Story Grid.
• Tips from NY book editors.
• Writing authentic dialogue.
• Tips from ProWritingAid.

Now it’s your turn. What’s the best advice you know for writing great dialogue? Who’s an author whose dialogue you particularly admire? Please share in the comments below.