When to use a comma before dialogue:
* Introductory phrase: If a phrase introduces the dialogue, use a comma before the opening quotation mark.
* *Example:* "I'm going to the store," she said.
* Tag after dialogue: If a tag (like "he said" or "she asked") follows the dialogue, use a comma before the closing quotation mark.
* *Example:* "I'm going to the store," she said.
When not to use a comma before dialogue:
* No introductory phrase: If there's no introductory phrase, don't use a comma before the opening quotation mark.
* *Example:* "I'm going to the store."
Important note: These rules apply to direct dialogue, where the speaker's exact words are quoted. If you're using indirect dialogue, you don't need any quotation marks, and the comma rules change.
* *Example:* She told him she was going to the store.
Let me know if you have any more questions about commas!