Dialogue Function and Mechanics

Analyze dialogue that advances the plot by introducing new information or forcing a decision.

Analyze dialogue that reveals character through word choice, speech patterns, and worldview.

Analyze dialogue that creates conflict when characters express incompatible goals.

Control conversational flow by analyzing turn-taking, interruptions, and topic changes.

Use action tags instead of dialogue tags to simultaneously convey speech and physical action.

Avoid 'talking heads' syndrome by grounding every few lines of dialogue with physical interaction or setting details.

Analyze the use of silence as a dialogue tool to indicate refusal, contemplation, or power.

Vary dialogue line length to reflect a character's confidence, emotional state, or status.