How do you change a sentence from direct speech to indirect speech?

Reported Speech Questions Medium



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How do you change a sentence from direct speech to indirect speech?

To change a sentence from direct speech to indirect speech, there are a few key steps to follow:

1. Identify the reporting verb: Determine the verb that will introduce the reported speech. Common reporting verbs include "say," "tell," "ask," etc.

2. Change the pronouns: Adjust the pronouns in the reported speech to match the subject of the reporting verb. For example, if the direct speech includes "I," it may change to "he/she" or "they" in the indirect speech.

3. Change the verb tense: Shift the verb tense in the reported speech according to the rules of sequence of tenses. For example, if the direct speech is in the present tense, it may change to the past tense in the indirect speech.

4. Change time and place references: Modify any time and place references in the reported speech to reflect the new context of the indirect speech.

5. Use reporting clauses or conjunctions: Introduce the reported speech with appropriate reporting clauses or conjunctions such as "that," "if," "whether," etc.

6. Punctuate correctly: Use quotation marks for direct speech and remove them in indirect speech. Additionally, adjust punctuation marks and sentence structure as needed.

By following these steps, you can effectively change a sentence from direct speech to indirect speech.