Adding dialogue to a story is often a necessary component, one that many writers dread. It’s challenging at best and, perhaps, disastrous at worst. Fiction authors risk boring, confusing or disappointing their readers if their novels lack quality in dialogue.
The idea of good versus bad writing is debatable. One thing is certain—all fiction authors can improve their writing, whether they are novices or regulars on the New York Times’ best seller list. There are several common dialogue errors, however, that all writers will want to avoid if their goal is to entertain readers and create a loyal following.
Fiction authors should avoid using characters’ names in every sentence
The following paragraph demonstrates how overuse of the characters’ names can reduce quality in dialogue:
Jane said, “Hi Kelly. I haven’t seen you in a while. How’s your mother?” Kelly replied, “Hi Jane. She’s much better, thanks. Will you be coming to the Grand Opening at our boutique this weekend, Jane? Mother says she feels up to hosting.” “I’d love to Kelly,” said Jane. “Let me check my calendar and get back to you.” “Okay, Jane, sounds great. Nice seeing you,” said Kelly, as she walked out the door at the deli. “Nice seeing you too, Kelly,” replied Jane with a smile.
Some fiction authors make the mistake of thinking readers won’t know who’s talking if they don’t include characters’ names in every sentence. The problem is the overuse of names clutters the dialogue so much that, while readers may know who’s talking, they lose track of what’s being said because they’re too busy trying to keep the names straight.
Don’t overload readers with unnecessary details
Adding detail to set a scene or to embellish or enhance a story is a worthwhile writing skill. It takes practice to find balance between adding enough detail to interest readers without overwhelming them. Too much detail makes a story feel daunting or, perhaps worse, boring. Readers don’t typically need to know exactly how many steps a character takes to reach the front door, unless, of course, you’re writing a murder mystery, and this fact is relevant in some way.
Fiction authors also should avoid adding details to explain every action in a story. For example, if you write that your character gasps and opens her eyes wide, there’s no need to add further detail, such as “because she was so surprised.” Readers will figure that out on their own.
Use stellar punctuation and grammar skills
Fiction authors may be great writers. Being a writer doesn’t guarantee grammar, spelling and punctuation skills. Poorly punctuated dialogue is an error you’ll want to avoid. Many writers rely on spellcheck for spelling but spellcheck sometimes offers a word in its prompts that doesn’t fit the context of a story. Words might sound similar or have similar meanings. This is why it’s best to seek professional editing to ensure that the dialogue in your novel is free of grammar, spelling and punctuation errors.
