Mastering Punctuation in Fiction: How to Use It to Shape Tone and Style

Every time I get edits or constructive criticism on my manuscripts, I learn more about punctuation. My newest nemesis is the em dash. I have the hardest time figuring out when to use it and how to use it correctly with dialogue punctuation.

Punctuation is more than just a set of rules; in fiction, it’s a storytelling tool that helps control the pace, convey tone, and enhance the reader’s experience. Beyond the basics of commas and periods, there are other punctuation marks that bring unique dynamics to writing (& reading).

Here’s a look at some punctuation options—especially the versatile (& often confusing) em dash—and how to use them effectively in fiction.

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“Easy” punctuation

Quotation Marks (“ ”): Beyond Dialogue

Quotation marks, typically used to signify dialogue, can also indicate a character’s internal thoughts or a specific tone, such as sarcasm or irony.

–For thoughts & sarcasm

• She was “totally fine” with his plans—not that he asked her opinion.

Tip – don’t forget to put your closed quotation marks (not that I’ve ever done that!).

Parentheses ( ): The Soft Aside

Parentheses allow for quiet, often humorous asides, adding a subtle layer of extra information. In fiction, they can give readers a window into the narrator’s or character’s private thoughts.

–To add a small side note:

• He knew he shouldn’t have gone (but really, who could resist?).

Tip – parentheses are rarely used in writing fiction.

My frustrating punctuation – the em dash

Em Dash (—): The Attention Grabber

The em dash is a long dash (—) often used to emphasize certain elements within a sentence, create interruptions, or add a touch of informality. In fiction, the em dash is a flexible tool that can convey a range of emotions and pauses.

Ways to Use the Em Dash in Fiction:

–To emphasize or highlight a thought:

• He never expected it—the letter that would change his life.

• There was only one thing left to do—run.

–To indicate an interruption in dialogue:

• “I can’t believe you would even think to—”

• “Wait, don’t go yet—” he reached out, but she was already gone.

–To add an aside or extra thought (similar to parentheses but more dramatic):

• She had seen many sunsets—the kind that felt like endings, like promises unkept—but this one was different.

Another example -this one is from Whitney Hemsath’s website and it demonstrates what I continue to struggle with:

If the dialogue is interrupted midsentence by an action WITHOUT an attribution tag, offset the dialogue with quotation marks and use em dashes outside the quotation marks to surround the action. There should be no spaces around the dashes and no capitalizing of the action or the second half of the dialogue.

Ex: “How on earth”—he shook his fists—“do I punctuate this?”

Tip – The em dash can be powerful, but overusing it can make the writing feel disjointed. Use it sparingly, especially in dialogue, where it can create tension and heighten emotions.

Ellipses (…): The Unspoken and Unfinished

Ellipses suggest pauses, hesitation, or thoughts left incomplete. They’re often used in dialogue to show a character trailing off or expressing doubt. Or, they’re used in narration to imply an unfinished thought.

–To show hesitation:

• “I don’t know … maybe it’s not worth it.”

–To convey an unfinished thought:

• He looked out over the city, lost in memories of everything they had … and everything they hadn’t.

Tip – Ellipses can become distracting if overused.

The “other punctuation:” colons & semicolons

The Colon (:): For Impact and Reveal

The colon introduces information and creates an intentional pause. In fiction, a colon can set up a reveal or emphasize a list or detail.

–To introduce a key detail:

• She had one rule: never go back.

–To set up an unexpected twist:

• He turned the corner and saw her standing there: his mother.

Tip – colons are rarely used in writing fiction

Semicolon (;): The Smooth Connector

The semicolon connects two related independent clauses, giving the sentence a smoother flow than a period. It’s a great choice when you want a pause that’s softer than a full stop but stronger than a comma.

–To link related thoughts:

• She wanted to tell him the truth; she just didn’t know how.

• He loved the way she laughed; it was like a melody that lingered.

Tip – Semicolons are rarely used in fiction. If you Google “are semicolons used in writing fiction,” you’ll get lots of results along the lines of:

• The semicolon is dead; long live the semicolon
• Do people actually use semicolons

I think they get a bad rap.

What’s your favorite punctuation?

Using punctuation creatively in your fiction writing can shape your story’s rhythm and the reader’s perception. Experiment with em dashes for emphasis, ellipses for hesitation, and other marks to build a unique narrative style that fits the voice of your story. And remember, punctuation should enhance your prose, not overwhelm it—use these tools strategically to keep readers engaged and invested in every line.

What’s your favorite punctuation?

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Hi, I’m Jen! I’ve been married for over 37 years, have 5 amazing kids and 3 adorable grandkids. I homeschooled our three youngest children, and I used to blog about homeschooling. I also taught Oral Communication as an adjunct instructor for over 5 years.

Jen Dodrill Writes is born of a passion of mine – to write a novel! My first cozy mystery, Birds Alive!, released Feb. 27, 2024!

When I’m not working, you’ll find me writing, spending time with my family, or curled up on the couch reading and drinking a mug of dark roast coffee. (Don’t forget to check out my mug shop – JDMugs!)