Knowing how to correctly quote in MLA format is crucial for academic success. Proper citation not only avoids plagiarism but also strengthens your argument by showcasing credible sources. This guide provides valuable insights into mastering MLA quotation techniques, helping you confidently integrate quotes into your essays and research papers.
Understanding MLA Quotation Basics
Before diving into the specifics, let's establish the fundamental principles:
- Accuracy: Ensure your quotes are verbatim—exactly as they appear in the original source. Even minor alterations can be considered plagiarism.
- Context: Never drop a quote into your paper without proper introduction and explanation. Your writing should smoothly integrate the quote, showing its relevance to your argument.
- Attribution: Always cite the source of your quote using in-text citations and a Works Cited page. This gives credit to the original author and allows readers to verify your information.
Different Types of MLA Quotes and How to Use Them
We'll explore the most common types of MLA quotes:
1. Short Quotes (Fewer than four lines of prose)
Short quotes are incorporated directly into the text, enclosed in double quotation marks.
Example: According to Smith, "the impact of social media on political discourse is undeniable" (Smith 12).
Key Points:
- Note the placement of the in-text citation (author's last name and page number).
- Punctuation follows the quote and precedes the citation.
2. Long Quotes (Four lines or more of prose)
Long quotes are presented as a block quote, indented one inch from the left margin without quotation marks.
Example:
The effects of climate change are far-reaching and complex. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities. Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense. These changes have profound implications for ecosystems and human societies. (Jones 45-46)
Key Points:
- Notice the lack of quotation marks.
- The citation is placed after the final punctuation mark.
- The block quote is indented as a distinct visual element.
3. Quoting Poetry
Poetry quotes follow slightly different rules, depending on length. Short quotes are integrated into the text, while longer excerpts are presented as block quotes. Always maintain the original line breaks. Use a slash (/) to indicate line breaks within short quotes.
Example (short quote): Wordsworth describes the daffodils as "a host, / Of golden daffodils" (Wordsworth 12).
Example (long quote):
I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o'er vales and hills, When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils. (Wordsworth 12-16)
4. Quoting Dialogue
Dialogue within a larger quote is enclosed in single quotation marks.
Example: The professor stated, "The student argued, 'The data doesn't support your hypothesis.'" (Brown 21).
Beyond the Basics: Handling Quotes Effectively
Adding Brackets and Ellipses
- Brackets [ ]: Use brackets to add clarifying words or to make grammatical adjustments within a quote.
- Ellipses . . .: Use ellipses to indicate omitted words or sentences. However, avoid using ellipses at the beginning or end of a quote unless it's necessary for clarity.
Integrating Quotes Smoothly
Remember to avoid simply dropping quotes into your paper. Use strong transition words and phrases to smoothly integrate the quotes into your writing. This demonstrates your understanding of the source material and its relevance to your overall argument.
Mastering MLA Citation: The Final Step
Accurate in-text citations and a meticulously crafted Works Cited page are essential components of MLA formatting. Ensure you understand how to format both correctly to avoid any issues with plagiarism or academic dishonesty. Remember to consult your style guide for the most current MLA guidelines.
By following these guidelines and practicing regularly, you'll master the art of quoting in MLA format, enhancing the quality and credibility of your academic writing. Good luck!
