I generally try to write with the idea in mind that if I can avoid it, to not use a dialogue tag at all. And, if I do use a tag, I try at the very least not to tack on an adverb to it, which is my ultimate pet peeve. I prefer "said", or verbs that directly imply speaking: blurted, repeated, added, interjected, snapped etc.


Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.