Direct Quote
What Is Direct Quoting?
Using an author or speaker’s exact words. The material is copied word-for-word from a source without changes to the original.
Characteristics of a Direct Quote
- Is copied word-for-word
- Uses quotation marks
- Uses a signal phrase to introduce information about the source before the quote (learn more about signal phrases)
- Credits original source with the author, year, and page (or alternate identification such as “para.” for paragraph
- Is less than 40 words (short quotation)
- Is more than 40 words (block quotation)
When quoting works longer than 40 words, use a block quotation format:
- Indent 1/2 inch from the left margin
- Do not use quotation marks
- Double-space the entire quotation
- Include in-text citation at end of quote OR include author information in the narrative introducing the block quotation
- Introduce block quotation with a complete sentence followed by a colon
- Include the period at the end of the quotation instead of after the citation
Block Quote Example:
When to Use Direct Quoting
- When you cannot easily express the same idea in your own words
- When using your own words would lessen the impact of the original language
- When original writing has striking or memorable author statements, expert opinions
- When you plan to argue against a writer’s ideas and want to accurately state them
- Don’t over quote. Overusing direct quotes lessons the impact of your writing and the demonstration of the control and knowledge over the subject matter.
- Don’t use two direct quotes in a row.