What are the rules for reporting statements in indirect speech?

The rules for reporting statements in indirect speech are as follows:

1. Change the tense: The tense of the reported statement is usually shifted back in time. For example, if the original statement is in the present tense, it is changed to the past tense in indirect speech.

2. Change pronouns and possessive adjectives: The pronouns and possessive adjectives in the reported statement are usually changed to reflect the perspective of the speaker in indirect speech. For example, "I" becomes "he/she" and "my" becomes "his/her."

3. Change time and place references: Time and place references in the reported statement are often adjusted to match the perspective of the speaker in indirect speech. For example, "today" may become "that day" and "here" may become "there."

4. Use reporting verbs: Reporting verbs such as "say," "tell," "ask," etc., are used to introduce the reported statement. These verbs are followed by a reporting clause that contains the reported statement.

5. Use reporting clauses: Reporting clauses are used to introduce the reported statement and can be introduced by reporting verbs or other expressions. For example, "He said that..." or "She told me that..."

6. Use appropriate reporting words: Words such as "that," "if," "whether," etc., are used to introduce reported statements depending on the type of sentence being reported.

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the specific context and the type of sentence being reported.