While you probably won't often use quotation marks, here are a few basic rules.
Quotation marks are used:

1. When quoting the exact words of someone (a direct quotation)
        Example: The Queen said, 'Diana was an exceptional person.'
2. When naming part of a whole publication, such as a chapter of a book, a song, or a magazine article. (When referring to a whole publication, use italics or underlining.)
        Example: The most interesting article in October's issue of Call to Action is "Consumers Are Killing Our World."

 

Pattern variations:

1. 'Don't give up,' said Earl. 'You will succeed.'
2. 'Don't give up,' said Earl, 'and you will succeed.'
3. 'Don't give up,' said Earl.
4. Earl said, 'Don't give up.'

In the above variations, take note of how uppercase and lowercase are used.
As well, you will find it helpful to remember the following three rules:

1. Periods and commas go inside closing quotation marks.
2. Semicolons and colons go outside closing quotation marks.
3. Question marks go inside when only the quotation is a question and outside when the entire sentence is expressed as a question.