OK so this is really a question on grammer, I've had a few knocks for this lately.  In regards to dialogue, which of these is correct.

ANDY
Two please Sheila.

OR

ANDY
Two please, Sheila.

I ask because for me it could be either.  I thought a 'comma' indicated a slight pause but the first example doesn't require a pause.  This is interpretation of how the dialogue should be read isn't it?

What I'm asking is, should you put a comma in before every characters name?

I'm in no way an expert on grammar but I would agree with option two.

I've always been told to put a comma whenever addressing someone by name or otherwise. So...

ANDY
Two please, love.

...would require a comma too. I quit school at 16 so I may be wrong, don't take my word for it.

Allfy, watch out.

Allfy watch out!

Can you hand me that, Allfy?

Hand me that Allfy.

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It depends on the structure of and how you're saying it.  If it's a command, no. You don't put a comma before the name.  If it's a question or in reference to, yes. Do so.

Then again, this is screenwriting and not literary arts. I don't think a few misplaced comma are going to break the bank.

Cheers for the quick responses guys.

Quoted from Baltis Then again, this is screenwriting and not literary arts. I don't think a few misplaced commas are going to break the bank.

You'd be surprised, I've had reviews that have basically slated me because I missed out comma's, and sometimes I don't think it required one.

Anyway thanks, Baltis (is that right lol)  You've cleared that up for me.

For a start it's "commas", not "comma's". You mean "commas" in a plural sense, not singular.

Both examples are correct. The preference depends on what you want to say and where you intend to put a pause. A comma's function is to indicate a pause.

Some would have you believe that you always need a comma before a name when a sentence finishes with one. Personally I think they are optional. As far as good grammar goes it is better to omit than to overuse.

And if you run out of commas you can always ask Craig Cooper for some. He's always got loads spare. Plenty of "and's" too. Bucketfuls.


RV

Quoted from RV For a start it's "commas", not "comma's". You mean "commas" in a plural sense, not singular.

Oops, sorry my bad lol.

Quoted from RV Both examples are correct. The preference depends on what you want to say and where you intend to put a pause. A comma's function is to indicate a pause.

This is exactely what I thought.