#1 [url]

Aug 7 07 12:32 PM

I think the best way is to show the character acting/reacting to a situation, then have them speak. Or have them speak, then add actions. The actions, including thoughts, denote the speaker, thus no tag is required. The actions also show the mood of the character, so you don't need adverbs and verbs like coarsely, barked, etc. It's also best if your characters have individual voices.

E.g.

Fred yanked his jumper over his head. "It's so bloody hot."

"Rather soldier's bold, I would have thought." With his nose planted in the air, John drew his cloak across his shoulders. "You are an odd one."