What are the rules for changing conjunctions and linking words in reported speech?

When changing direct speech to indirect speech, there are certain rules to follow regarding the conjunctions and linking words used. Here are the rules for changing conjunctions and linking words in reported speech:

1. That: In most cases, the conjunction "that" is used to introduce reported speech. It is often omitted in informal speech, but it is necessary in formal writing. For example:
Direct speech: "I am going to the party," she said.
Indirect speech: She said that she was going to the party.

2. Question words: When reporting a question, the question word is changed according to the context. For example:
Direct speech: "Where are you going?" he asked.
Indirect speech: He asked where I was going.

3. Reporting verbs: Different reporting verbs can be used to introduce reported speech, such as "say," "tell," "ask," "reply," etc. The choice of reporting verb can affect the structure of the reported speech. For example:
Direct speech: "I will help you," he promised.
Indirect speech: He promised to help me.

4. Time and place expressions: When reporting time and place expressions, these may need to be changed to reflect the new context. For example:
Direct speech: "I will meet you here tomorrow," she said.
Indirect speech: She said that she would meet me there the next day.

5. Pronouns: Pronouns in reported speech may need to be changed to reflect the new subject or object. For example:
Direct speech: "I love you," he said.
Indirect speech: He said that he loved me.

6. Tense changes: The tense of the reported speech is often shifted back in time. For example:
Direct speech: "I am studying for the exam," she said.
Indirect speech: She said that she was studying for the exam.

7. Modals and auxiliary verbs: Modals and auxiliary verbs may need to be changed to reflect the reported speech. For example:
Direct speech: "Can you help me?" she asked.
Indirect speech: She asked if I could help her.

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the context and the specific reporting verb used. It is always advisable to consider the overall meaning and context when changing conjunctions and linking words in reported speech.