### Answer Yes, you can add pauses in your agent's speech using spaced dashes. [(1) ]() To add a pause, include

-

with spaces around it in the text:

The number is 2 - 1 - 3 - 4

For longer pauses, use multiple dashes with double spaces between them:

The number is 2 - - - - 1 - - - - 3
// Notice the double spaces between the dashes

**Important**: The spaces around the dash (

-

) are required for proper pausing behavior. If you want the agent to wait for a user response between questions (rather than just pausing speech) , structure your prompts with explicit "wait for user response" instructions: [(2) ]()

1. Ask for user's name.
wait for user response

2. Ask if user needs a refund, need a replacement, or just retrieving information.
wait for user response

​ To learn more, see the sources I considered: [[1] Add pause or read slowly](https://docs.retellai.com/build/add-pause) [[2] Agent not waiting in between statements/questions despite pauses in prompt](https://discord.com/channels/1186424376300679209/1409973649221619812) ​

Feel free to tag @AI Evy with additional questions. I also appreciate feedback, it helps me improve.

Appreciate the feedback! Feel free to ask me again with additional guidance or context.