What is the function of a quotation mark in writing?

The function of a quotation mark in writing is primarily to enclose direct speech or quotations. When an author wants to convey the exact words spoken by someone else or to cite a source, quotation marks clearly define those words as distinct from the rest of the text. This helps readers understand that they are reading someone else's voice or a specific statement, which adds clarity and authority to the writing.

For instance, if a character in a story says, "I will go to the store," the quotation marks indicate that these are the exact words spoken by that character. Using quotation marks correctly ensures that readers can distinguish between narrative and dialogue, enhancing the overall comprehension of the text.