Tips for Handling Quotations
DOs:
1. Your own voice should dominate: Even in lengthy quotations
your own voice should command the reader’s attention.
2. Frame each quotation with your own words: You must not only introduce,
but must also conclude each quotation that you use. You must tell your
reader how to read the quotation as it relates to your ideas. Avoid
"floating quotations."
3. Acknowledge the source within the text: In both paraphrase and
direct quotation, the author of your source should be acknowledged within
your text. For example: "Gardner states that . . ."
4. The author has used memorable, unusual, or concise language:
If the author has used a phrase that is stated particularly well or uses
language that is significantly unusual, it may be beneficial to use a direct
quote. It is also helpful to quote an author whose words are far more concise
than your own. (Weidenborner and Caruso, 84-85).
5. Quotations should be grammatically correct: This does not mean
that you should "correct" the grammar of your source. It does mean that
a quote should follow the grammar of your own sentence. This can be accomplished
through the use of ellipses, interpolated phrases in brackets, and through
careful selection of the quoted material.
6. Quote to refute: Include a quotation if you wish to refute the
author’s points.
DON'Ts:
1. Do not quote material which may be easily paraphrased: This
applies to general information and to transition information within the
source. You will also want to incorporate the paraphrase when a summary
of the author’s main point will best serve your purposes.
2. Do not passively use sources: In other words, do not let your
source material write your paper for you by merely stringing quoted and
paraphrased material together. You must always remember that it is your
ideas which are of primary importance.
3. Do not overquote: Do not include lengthy quotations unless the
writer’s own voice is of particular interest. Quote only the bare minimum
necessary to make your point.
4. Do not quote out of context: Make certain that the author’s original
intention is not misrepresented.