Direct Speech Rules
Direct speech is when someone’s words are written down exactly
as they were said.
There are a few basic rules to follow when using direct speech.
Using inverted commas.
Punctuate the actual words of
the speaker or writer in a set of
inverted commas.
For example:
“It is my birthday today!”
shouted Daisy.
Every speaker begins on a new line.
When one person has stopped
speaking and a new person begins,
ensure you begin the next part of
direct speech on a new line.
For example:
Use a reporting clause when
inserting inverted commas.
You should accompany the text
with a reporting clause, which may
be placed before or after the direct
speech. A reporting clause consists of
a noun or pronoun and a reporting
verb. The first word of the reporting
clause should not be capitalized if it
is situated after the inverted commas
unless it is a proper noun.
For example:
“Where would you like to go today?”
the girl asked.
The boy responded, “I would love to
go to the park!”
“I love this song,” said Ellie.
Katie responded, “It is my favourite!”
Put a comma inside the inverted
commas before writing words
like ‘said’.
If you are not using ‘said’ after
closing the inverted commas, make
sure to use the correct punctuation.
For example:
For example:
“Sit down right now!!” shouted
Mrs Smith.
“I am freezing,,” said Ben.
“Can I have an apple??” asked James