Write dialogue that exists for a reason. An occasional quip or bit of something that doesn't advance the plot isn't necessarily a problem (especially if it's used as a way to flesh out a character or add strength to their voice), but these should be used sparingly, and any major conversation should have a point and later ramifications.
And, ffs, make your characters talk like people. People do not talk circles around each other for twenty minutes at a time. Again, a bit of confusion for comedy or plot purposes might be fine, but don't have every conversation be full of people establishing basic information over and over again. It's annoying and makes your characters (and you!) look like morons. Or, worse, it looks like you think your readers are.
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timeasmymeasure
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Date: 2012-12-18 07:53 pm (UTC)And, ffs, make your characters talk like people. People do not talk circles around each other for twenty minutes at a time. Again, a bit of confusion for comedy or plot purposes might be fine, but don't have every conversation be full of people establishing basic information over and over again. It's annoying and makes your characters (and you!) look like morons. Or, worse, it looks like you think your readers are.