What is the correct way to switch dialogue between two or more characters during a conversation without it being confusing for the reader?

Question

When I use dialogue within the stories I write I have a bad habit of writing dialogue after dialogue without indication as to who is talking. An example is when I do this in a story> “Arden! Darling, it’s time.”>“Time? Time for what Cecilia?”>“Why it’s time for your memory wipe.”>“Memory wipe? What the Hell do you mean?”>“I mean exactly what I said. It’s time for your memory wipe. You’ve reached the end of your assassin training and the contract that you signed when you started states that when you reach the age of seventeen you will have your mind wiped of everything that has happened to you and you experiences.” Is this confusing to readers or is it fine to leave it?

Answer 1

I suggest giving gestures to the characters.

"Excuse me!" Ana called to the idiot standing in front of her. "That's my spot!"

The idiot turned his head, raising a brow. "You talking to me?" He asked.

Ana placed her hands on her hips. "Yeah, I'm talking to you! That's my spot!"

The idiot just stared at her, his stupid face just getting stupider. "Uh..."

"Move it!" She snapped.

Another boy turned to her. "Hey, you don't have to be so rude!"

Ana glared at the newcomer. "I didn't take someones spot, now, did I? No! So, maybe you should mind your own business! This," she pointed at the idiot for emphasis, "boy took my spot! I have been waiting for hours!" She turned back to the first boy and crossed her arms.

Etc...

Here's a quick edit. I don't know what you intended. But, based on the dialogue, this is how I see it. I also removed some of the awkward wording that was too explainie.

Cecilia touched Arden on the shoulder. “Arden! Darling, it’s time.”

Arden blinked. “Time? Time for what Cecilia?”

“Why it’s time for your memory wipe.” Cecilia said gently.

“Memory wipe? What the Hell do you mean?” Arden frowned.

“I mean exactly what I said. It’s time for your memory wipe. You’ve reached the end of your training and the contract states that when you reach the age of seventeen you will have your mind wiped of everything that has happened. Don't you remember that?”

Generally, I suggest only going 2 or 3 quotes before making a statement that clarifies to whom you are referring.

Hope this helps! :)