What are effective strategies for writing dialogue that drives the plot?

Whenever you write a plot where multiple characters are involved, each character should sound the way that fits who they are. Their way of speaking should show their background story, personality and how they are feeling in that moment. It helps readers to connect with the character and see things from the character's perspective. If all the characters sound the same, then eventually readers will lose interest in the story. By giving each character a unique tone while writing, you make them more real.

Effective strategies for writing dialogue that drives the plot include: Advance the Story: Ensure each line of dialogue moves the plot forward or reveals crucial information. Reveal Character: Use dialogue to showcase characters' personalities, motivations, and relationships. Create Conflict: Incorporate disagreements or tension to keep the reader engaged. Be Concise: Keep dialogue succinct and avoid unnecessary small talk. Use Subtext: Allow underlying meanings and emotions to be conveyed indirectly. Reflect the Situation: Match dialogue to the context and setting to enhance realism and immersion.

In health writing, dialogue can be a game-changer for conveying complex information, exploring emotional struggles, and showcasing the human side of healthcare.

One way to use subtext effectively is through silence or nonverbal communication. Often, what characters don't say can reveal more about their thoughts and feelings than any amount of dialogue. Pay attention to the pauses, hesitations, and gestures in your scenes, and consider how they can convey meaning and drive the plot forward without the need for explicit exposition. For example, a character's refusal to answer a question or their avoidance of a certain topic can speak volumes about their internal conflict or secret agenda. Likewise, a shared look between two characters or a tense silence in the midst of an argument can hint at deeper tensions or unresolved issues that drive the narrative forward.

"Show, don't tell" sounds complex, right? How can you show something when you are writing? Instead of directly telling your readers what a character is feeling or thinking, you should let their dialogues and words reveal it. When writing a dialogue, don't have the character directly state their emotions or thoughts. Instead, express it through how they talk and what they say. This makes the story feel more natural and interesting where you are allowing readers to guess or understand what the character is thinking or feeling. This way readers stay curious and engaged, figuring out the story on their own.