Speech marks

In a nutshell

Inverted commas, also known as speech marks, are used to identify direct speech in writing. In this summary, you will learn how to use inverted commas to punctuate direct speech.

Direct speech rules

Direct speech is when a person's exact words are written down inside inverted commas. Inverted commas are also sometimes called speech marks. Speech marks always come in pairs and they go before and after direct speech, surrounding what was said by the speaker.

Rule 1

The first set of speech marks goes before the first word that has been said. If the speech starts in the middle of a sentence, you will need to put a comma before the speech marks to introduce the speech.

Example

"William called out to his sister, "It's time to go home Sarah!"

Rule 2

The first word that is being said needs to start with a capital letter.

Example

"Have you cleaned your room?"

Rule 3

When the speech ends, you need to end it with punctuation. Use a full stop if the sentence ends when the speech ends. End the sentence with a question mark if the speech is asking a question. If the speech shows strong feelings or emotions such as anger, happiness or excitement, you should end the sentence with an exclamation mark.

Examples

"I'm not too sure what to do."

"Did you go to school yesterday?"

"Wow, that's amazing!"

Rule 4

The second set of speech marks should go after the punctuation at the end of the sentence.

Example

"I'm so happy for you!"

Tip: If the sentence carries on after the direct speech, you need to use a comma before the second speech mark, then you can continue the sentence.

Example

"I'm so hungry," Sandeep complained.

Rule 5

A new speaker needs a new line.

Example

"What time is the bus coming?" asked Marianne.

"I'm not too sure," replied Julie.