M.A. Grant's Tip

We all love when good dialogue is present, and notice when it’s not. Be it a villain’s monologue, a tender admission of love, or a catchphrase hurled back and forth as some kind of emotional shorthand, well-written dialogue allows readers to connect to and empathize with a wide range of characters.

I like to study effective dialogue through live theater or film. Reading the script or screenplay is one thing; hearing those same words delivered with varied pacing or emotions is another. One blessing of this internet age is our improved accessibility to find clips of famous speeches or scenes online, from professional to amateur productions. Examining why the same line can shine or fail depending on delivery is one way to hone your dialogue.

Another way to learn more about effective dialogue is to read (or watch) widely. Explore genre fiction for varied styles. Learn how non-fiction transcribes interviews and why certain people’s quotes are either polished or left rough. Compare the difference between TED Talks and on-the-street interviews. Listen to audiobooks or read sections of text aloud so you can find the rhythm or beat of characters’ voices. Study how film-trained actors’ deliveries are different from stage-trained actors’ deliveries. Revisit favorite books and shows and question how they hooked you.

Once you know why dialogue works for you as a reader or viewer, you can apply those same principles to your own writing.

Jeanine B. Downie

Jeanine B. Downie is board certified dermatologist. She has extensive training and experience in all aspects of dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, laser and dermatologic surgery. She is on staff at Mountainside and Overlook hospitals in New Jersey and has published fifty-five scientific papers. Dr. Downie has been honored repeatedly by Castle Connolly as one of New York Metropolitan’s Top Doctors. She is frequently featured on The Today’s Show, Good Morning America, and Dr. Oz.

Tiana Laveen

Tiana Laveen is a USA Today bestselling author who was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Communication from the University of Cincinnati, and is married with two children.

Eve Persak

Eve Persak lives and works internationally as a nutrition consultant and counselor. She’s collaborated with brands in the culinary, tech, fitness, media, hospitality, agriculture, sustainability, and travel industries on projects in six of the seven continents (she's just waiting on Antarctica).

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