When people make these comments, how do I respond?

Question

I have trouble with responding to comments.. I never know what to say when people tell me things such as

1 - Your lunch looks good (I usually respond: "Thanks")

2 - Your art project is good (I usually respond: "Thanks, I don't like it though")

3 - You're so quiet (I usually respond: "Yeah" or "I know")

4 - I like your hair (I usually respond: "Thanks, but its too long thought")

And some other examples of conversations in which I don't know how to reply

Me: Did you know *name* before this year?

Person: Yeah, he is my friend's neighbor

Me: Oh... cool

Another example

Me: When do you have volleyball practice?

Person: After school

Me: Oh

How should I respond in situations like these? I sound so dull and I sound like I'm not at all interested... But I have no idea how to respond to these comments... Help!

Answer 1

If you asked them a question, maybe thank them and let them know why you were asking.

For the lunch thing, let them know it is or let them know what it is. For the hair, maybe make a comment about how you're thinking about getting it cut and ask for advice on a style. Ask questions, elongate what you say.

Answer 2

Just remember Who, What, When, Where, and Why.

Like for example:

You: When do you have volleyball practice?

Person: After school

You: Oh, Who else is on the volleyball team?

Person:"name" and "name"

You: Oh! I don't know "name" but "other name" is in my history class, That's cool

So i think you catch my drift... just say whatever comes to mind and make small talk.