Explain the rules for changing direct speech into indirect speech.

The rules for changing direct speech into indirect speech are as follows:

1. Change the pronouns: In indirect speech, the pronouns are usually changed to reflect the perspective of the speaker. For example, "I" becomes "he/she," "we" becomes "they," and "you" becomes "he/she/they."

2. Change the tense: The tense of the verb in the reported speech is usually shifted back in time. For example, if the direct speech is in the present tense, it is changed to the past tense in indirect speech. However, if the reported speech is still true or relevant, the tense may remain the same.

3. Change time and place references: Time and place references are usually shifted to reflect the perspective of the speaker. For example, "today" becomes "that day," "here" becomes "there," and "tomorrow" becomes "the next day."

4. Change reporting verbs: Reporting verbs such as "say," "tell," "ask," etc., are used to introduce indirect speech. These verbs are often changed to reflect the meaning of the reported speech. For example, "said" can be changed to "told," "asked," "inquired," etc.

5. Change modal verbs and adverbs: Modal verbs and adverbs may need to be changed to reflect the reported speech. For example, "can" becomes "could," "will" becomes "would," and "now" becomes "then."

6. Change the punctuation: In indirect speech, quotation marks are not used. Instead, a reporting clause is used to introduce the reported speech. For example, "He said, 'I am happy'" becomes "He said that he was happy."

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the context and the tense of the reported speech. Additionally, reported questions and commands have their own specific rules for conversion into indirect speech.