How do you write compelling and realistic dialogue for a character who doesn't speak or has limited verbal communication skills?

AAC devices, or augmentative and alternative communication devices, can be high-tech (like tablet-based systems with pre-programmed phrases) or low-tech (like communication boards with pictures and symbols).

Sign language is a visual-manual language with its own grammar and syntax, differing from English or other spoken languages.

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Facial expressions, body language, and gestures play a crucial role in conveying meaning when using AAC devices or sign language.

Dialogue tags help readers understand how characters are communicating, especially for non-speaking or limited speech characters.

Character voices in dialogue should be distinct and realistic, shaped by factors like age, socioeconomic background, occupation, and personality.

Word choices and rhythms can be used to make each character sound unique; using slang, jargon, or regional dialects can also emphasize differences.

Balancing speech with action by incorporating "action beats" can help readers visualize interactions and progression of conversation.

Formatting dialogue correctly is essential for clarity and readability, with a set of quotation marks around spoken lines and proper punctuation inside the quotes.

Contractions can and should be used in dialogue to add nuance and naturalness in character speech, making it less stilted and more conversational.

Incorporating pauses, hesitations, and interruptions add to the realism of dialogue, signifying natural human tendencies in conversation.

Subtext – conveying meaning between the lines – can convey unspoken thoughts or emotions, allowing readers to infer more about the characters.

Adapting dialogue according to the situation or context, such as increasing urgency or using humor, can showcase a character's versatility and authenticity.

Realistic dialogue should not only include substance but also allow moments of silence, reflection, and indirect communication, revealing characters' emotions and thoughts without explicit verbalization.