Including direct quotes in a research paper is an excellent way to strengthen and support your arguments, but it’s important to properly cite quotes and format them correctly. This guide will discuss best practices for quote format in research papers, including direct quotation formatting, citing quotes, using block quotes, integrating quotes into your text, and avoiding overuse of quotes.
Direct Quotation Formatting
For direct word-for-word quotes under 4 typed lines or approximately 40 words, enclose the quote in double quotation marks. Include the author’s last name and year of publication in the citation after the quote:
According to Smith (2020), “Technology has profoundly changed the way people communicate and access information.”
For longer quotes that are over 4 lines or 40 words, do not use quotation marks. Instead, use a block quote format that indents the entire quote 1/2 inch from the left margin. Double space it and do not use quotation marks. Include the citation after the closing punctuation:
Smith argues that technology has drastically altered society:
Digital devices allow people to stay constantly connected through social media and messaging apps. The internet provides instant access to vast stores of information through search engines and online databases. As a result, communication patterns and the consumption of information have been upended. People expect updated information immediately and share details of their lives constantly through technology. (Smith, 2020)
Citing Quotes
After directly quoting or paraphrasing a source, you must provide an in-text citation with the author’s last name and year of publication in parentheses. This lets the reader know where the information came from and allows them to find the full citation on the works cited page. The citation should come after the quote but before the period. Some examples:
“Students today have instant access to an unprecedented wealth of information through Google searches” (Jones, 2015).
As Jones (2015) states, “Students today have instant access to an unprecedented wealth of information through Google searches.”
Integrating Quotes
When including a quote, you must introduce, contextualize, and comment on it to help the reader understand why the quote is relevant. Merely dropping a quote into your paper without context is problematic. Some techniques for integrating quotes include:
Introducing the quote with a signal phrase like “According to Smith,” or “As Jones explains,”
Explaining how the quote illustrates or supports your point
Commenting on specific elements or aspects of the quote
Analyzing the quote and connecting it to your broader argument
For example:
Jones argues that technology has drastically changed research habits (2015). As Jones explains, “Digital devices allow people to stay constantly connected through social media and messaging apps.” This reflects how technology promotes constant online connectivity and information sharing.
Block Quotes
For longer quotes of more than 4 lines or 40 words, use a block quote format rather than enclosing in quotation marks. The formatting is:
Indent the entire quote half an inch from the left margin
Do not use quotation marks
Maintain double spacing throughout
Include the citation after the closing punctuation at the end of the quote:
As Smith eloquently describes the impact of technology:
Digital devices allow people to stay constantly connected through social media and messaging apps. The internet provides instant access to vast stores of information through search engines and online databases. As a result, communication patterns and the consumption of information have been upended. People expect updated information immediately and share details of their lives constantly through technology. (Smith, 2020)
Avoid Overuse of Quotes
While it’s necessary to include relevant quotes to support your points, over-quoting takes away from your own analysis and voice. Avoid directly quoting more than 10-15% of your paper. Summarize and paraphrase the main ideas from sources in your own words as much as possible. Direct quotes should usually only be used to emphasize a particularly striking phrase or powerful quote from an expert. Too many long quotes will make your paper read more like a string of other people’s words instead of your own analysis and argument.
Following guidelines on quote and citation formatting will ensure credibility in your research paper and help readers locate sources efficiently. As you craft your arguments, it’s important to thoughtfully integrate relevant quotes while relying more on your own analysis and synthesis of evidence to craft an original thesis. Consult your style guide for any subject-specific variations, but these general rules on quote usage and formatting can effectively strengthen research papers in most academic disciplines.