How do you report reported speech in reported speech?

To report reported speech in reported speech, we need to follow certain rules and make appropriate changes to the original reported speech. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Identify the original reported speech: Start by identifying the original reported speech within the given sentence or conversation. This can be indicated by quotation marks or by the use of reporting verbs such as "said," "told," "asked," etc.

2. Introduce the reporting verb: Begin the reported speech by introducing a reporting verb that indicates the act of reporting. Common reporting verbs include "said," "told," "asked," "informed," etc. Make sure to use the appropriate reporting verb based on the context and the tense of the original reported speech.

3. Change the pronouns and verb tenses: Adjust the pronouns and verb tenses in the reported speech according to the rules of reported speech. The general rule is to shift the pronouns and verb tenses one step back in time. For example, if the original reported speech is in the present tense, it should be changed to the past tense in the reported speech. Similarly, if the original reported speech refers to the first person, it should be changed to the third person in the reported speech.

4. Use reporting clauses or conjunctions: Use reporting clauses or conjunctions to connect the reporting verb with the reported speech. Common reporting clauses include "that," "whether," "if," etc. For example, "He said that..." or "She asked whether..."

5. Make necessary changes to time and place references: If the original reported speech includes specific time or place references, adjust them accordingly in the reported speech. For example, change "tomorrow" to "the next day" or "here" to "there."

6. Maintain the original meaning: Ensure that the reported speech accurately conveys the original meaning of the speaker. Avoid adding or omitting any crucial information unless necessary for clarity or grammatical correctness.

7. Punctuate correctly: Use appropriate punctuation marks to indicate reported speech. In most cases, reported speech is enclosed within quotation marks or reported speech marks. Additionally, use commas, question marks, or exclamation marks as needed based on the tone and structure of the reported speech.

By following these steps, you can effectively report reported speech in reported speech while maintaining the accuracy and integrity of the original message.