The Secret Technique Top Writers Use to Write Unforgettable Character Dialogue
Ever notice how a dull dialogue scene can feel like watching two people politely passing a ball back and forth—except with less excitement? What if you could turn those aimless exchanges into a high-stakes match, where every line is a riveting serve or a sharp return, with characters volleying words like tennis pros battling for the championship point? Writing dialogue between two characters isn’t just about what they say—it’s about how they play off each other, pushing, attacking, defending, and ultimately scoring emotional or narrative winners. Yet, many writers get tangled in endless chatter or lengthy monologues that bog down the tempo and tension.
In this post—an excerpt from our screenwriting bible Master Screenplay Dialogue: The Ultimate Practical Guide on How to Write Dialogue Like the Pros—I’ll share a nifty, little-known theory hack that reframes dialogue as a game of tennis. This approach helps you slice through the fluff and polish your scenes so they hum with conflict, stakes, and purpose. By the end, you’ll spot the biggest blunder writers make with two-character conversations, learn how to keep your exchanges snappy and effective (think three lines or fewer!), and gain the tools to bring that thrilling back-and-forth dynamic to your scripts. Ready to lace up and serve some knockout dialogue?
