how to introduce quotes in an essay

popular searches

• Request Info

Suggested Ways to Introduce Quotations

When you quote another writer's words, it's best to introduce or contextualize the quote. 

How To Quote In An Essay?

To introduce a quote in an essay , don't forget to include author's last name and page number (MLA) or author, date, and page number (APA) in your citation. Shown below are some possible ways to introduce quotations. The examples use MLA format.

Use A Full Sentence Followed by A Colon To Introduce A Quotation

• The setting emphasizes deception: "Nothing is as it appears" (Smith 1).
• Piercy ends the poem on an ironic note: "To every woman a happy ending" (25).

Begin A Sentence with Your Own Words, Then Complete It with Quoted Words

Note that in the second example below, a slash with a space on either side ( / ) marks a line break in the original poem.

• Hamlet's task is to avenge a "foul and most unnatural murder" (Shakespeare 925).
• The speaker is mystified by her sleeping baby, whose "moth-breath / flickers among the flat pink roses" (Plath 17).

Use An Introductory Phrase Naming The Source, Followed By A Comma to Quote A Critic or Researcher

Note that the first letter after the quotation marks should be upper case. According to MLA guidelines, if you change the case of a letter from the original, you must indicate this with brackets. APA format doesn't require brackets.

• According to Smith, "[W]riting is fun" (215).
• In Smith's words, " . . .
• In Smith's view, " . . .

Use A Descriptive Verb, Followed by A Comma To Introduce A Critic's Words

Avoid using says unless the words were originally spoken aloud, for instance, during an interview.

• Smith states, "This book is terrific" (102).
• Smith remarks, " . . .
• Smith writes, " . . .
• Smith notes, " . . .
• Smith comments, " . . .
• Smith observes, " . . .
• Smith concludes, " . . .
• Smith reports, " . . .
• Smith maintains, " . . .
• Smith adds, " . . .

Don't Follow It with A Comma If Your Lead into The Quotation Ends in That or As

The first letter of the quotation should be lower case.

• Smith points out that "millions of students would like to burn this book" (53).
• Smith emphasizes that " . . .
• Smith interprets the hand washing in MacBeth as "an attempt at absolution" (106).
• Smith describes the novel as "a celebration of human experience" (233).

Other Writing Resources

Enhance your academic writing skills by exploring our additional writing resources that will help you craft compelling essays, research papers, and more.

Your New Chapter Starts Wherever You Are

The support you need and education you deserve, no matter where life leads.

because a future built by you is a future built for you.

Too many people have been made to feel that higher education isn’t a place for them— that it is someone else’s dream. But we change all that. With individualized attention and ongoing support, we help you write a new story for the future where you play the starring role.

• Areas of Study
• Accessible Human-Centered Computing
• American Sign Language
• Art and Media Design
• Communication Studies
• Criminal Justice
• Data Science
• Deaf Studies
• Early Intervention Studies
• Educational Neuroscience
• Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences
• Information Technology
• International Development
• Interpretation and Translation
• Linguistics
• Mathematics
• Philosophy and Religion
• Physical Education & Recreation
• Public Affairs
• Public Health
• Sexuality and Gender Studies
• Social Work
• Theatre and Dance
• World Languages and Cultures
• B.A. in American Sign Language
• B.A. in Biology
• B.A. in Communication Studies
• B.A. in Communication Studies for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.A. in Deaf Studies
• B.A. in Deaf Studies for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.A. in Education with a Specialization in Early Childhood Education
• B.A. in Education with a Specialization in Elementary Education
• B.A. in English
• B.A. in English for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.A. in Government
• B.A. in Government with a Specialization in Law
• B.A. in History
• B.A. in Interdisciplinary Spanish
• B.A. in International Studies
• B.A. in Mathematics
• B.A. in Philosophy
• B.A. in Psychology
• B.A. in Psychology for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.A. in Social Work (BSW)
• B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology
• B.A. in Theatre Arts: Production/Performance
• B.A. or B.S. in Education with a Specialization in Secondary Education: Science, English, Mathematics or Social Studies
• B.S. in Accounting
• B.S. in Accounting for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.S. in Biology
• B.S. in Business Administration
• B.S. in Business Administration for Online Degree Completion Program
• B.S. in Data Science
• B.S. in Information Technology
• B.S. in Mathematics
• B.S. in Physical Education and Recreation
• B.S. in Public Health
• B.S. in Risk Management and Insurance
• General Education
• Honors Program
• Peace Corps Prep program
• Self-Directed Major
• M.A. in Counseling: Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• M.A. in Counseling: School Counseling
• M.A. in Deaf Education
• M.A. in Deaf Education Studies
• M.A. in Deaf Studies: Cultural Studies
• M.A. in Deaf Studies: Language and Human Rights
• M.A. in Early Childhood Education and Deaf Education
• M.A. in Early Intervention Studies
• M.A. in Elementary Education and Deaf Education
• M.A. in International Development
• M.A. in Interpretation: Combined Interpreting Practice and Research
• M.A. in Interpretation: Interpreting Research
• M.A. in Linguistics
• M.A. in Secondary Education and Deaf Education
• M.A. in Sign Language Education
• M.S. in Accessible Human-Centered Computing
• M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Au.D. in Audiology
• Ed.D. in Transformational Leadership and Administration in Deaf Education
• Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology
• Ph.D. in Critical Studies in the Education of Deaf Learners
• Ph.D. in Hearing, Speech, and Language Sciences
• Ph.D. in Linguistics
• Ph.D. in Translation and Interpreting Studies
• Ph.D. Program in Educational Neuroscience (PEN)
• Psy.D. in School Psychology
• Individual Courses and Training
• National Caregiver Certification Course
• CASLI Test Prep Courses
• Course Sections
• Certificates
• Certificate in Educating Deaf Students with Disabilities
• Certificate in American Sign Language and English Bilingual Early Childhood Deaf Education: Birth to 5
• Certificate in Early Intervention Studies
• Certificate in Peer Mentor Training
• Certificate in Sexuality and Gender Studies
• Online Degree Programs
• ODCP Minor in Communication Studies
• ODCP Minor in Deaf Studies
• ODCP Minor in Psychology
• ODCP Minor in Writing
• University Capstone Honors for Online Degree Completion Program

Quick Links

• Plan a Visit
• Request Info
• PK-12 & Outreach
• NSO Schedule

Words that introduce Quotes or Paraphrases

202.448-7036

Remember that you are required to cite your sources for paraphrases and direct quotes. For more information on MLA Style, APA style, Chicago Style, ASA Style, CSE Style, and I-Search Format, refer to our Gallaudet TIP Citations and References  link.

Words that introduce Quotes or Paraphrases are basically three keys verbs:

• Neutral Verbs( here )
• Stronger Verbs( here )
• Inference Verbs( here )

Neutral Verbs: When used to introduce a quote, the following verbs basically mean “says”

Examples of Neutral Verbs

The author  says. The author  notes. The author  believes. The author  observes. The author  comments. The author  relates. The author  declares. The author  remarks. The author  discusses. The author  reports. The author  explains. The author  reveals. The author  expresses. The author  states. The author  mentions. The author  acknowledges. The author  suggests. The author  thinks. The author  points out. The author  responds. The author  shows. The author  confirms.

Sample Sentences

• Dr. Billow  says  that being exposed to television violence at a young age desensitizes children to violence in real life (author’s last name p.##).
• As the author  notes , “In an ideal classroom, both gifted children and learning disabled children should feel challenged” (p.##).
• Burdow  believes  that being able to write using proper English grammar is an important skill (author’s last name p.##).
• Dr. Patel  observes  that “most people tend to respond well to hypnotherapy” (p. ##).
• We see this self doubt again in the second scene, when Agatha comments , “Oh, times like this I just don’t know whether I am right or wrong, good or bad” (p. ##).
• Goeff then relates  that his childhood was “the time he learned to live on less than bread alone” (p. ##).
• The author declares , “All people, rich or poor, should pay the same taxes to the government” (p. ##).
• Godfried remarks , “Ignorance is a skill learned by many of the greatest fools” (author’s last name p.##).
• The article discusses the qualities of a good American housewife in the 1950s (author’s last name p.##).
• After the war is over, the General reports that “It seemed a useless battle to fight even from the start” (p.##).
• Danelli explains , “All mammals have hair” (p.##).
• The author reveals his true feelings with his ironic remark that we should “just resort to cannibalism to defeat world hunger” (p. ##).
• Forton expresses disapproval of the American welfare system (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• The author states that “More than fifty percent of all marriages end in divorce” (p. ##).
• He also mentions , “Many children grow up feeling responsible for their parents’ mistakes” (p. ##).
• Jones acknowledges that although the divorce rate is increasing, most young children still dream of getting married (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• The author suggests that we hone our English skills before venturing into the work force (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• The author thinks that the recent weather has been too hot (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Folsh points out that there were hundreds of people from varying backgrounds at the convention (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Julia Hertz responded to allegations that her company was aware of the faulty tires on their cars (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• His research shows that 7% of Americans suffer from Social Anxiety Disorder (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Jostin’s research confirmed his earlier hypothesis: mice really are smarter than rats (author’s last, year, name p. ##).

Stronger Verbs: These verbs indicate that there is some kind of argument, and that the quote shows either support of or disagreement with one side of the argument.

Examples of Stronger Verbs The author agrees . . .The author rejects . The author argues . The author compares . (the two studies) The author asserts . The author admits . The author cautions . The author disputes . The author emphasizes . The author contends . The author insists . The author denies . The author maintains . The author refutes . The author claims . The author endorses .

Sample Sentences MLA Style

• Despite criticism, Johnston agrees that smoking should be banned in all public places (author’s last name p.##).
• The author argues that “subjecting non-smokers to toxic second-hand smoke is not only unfair, but a violation of their right to a safe environment” (p.##).
• Vick asserts that “cigarette smoke is unpleasant, and dangerous” (p.##).
• The author cautions that “people who subject themselves to smoky bars night after night could develop illnesses such as emphysema or lung cancer” (p.##).
• Rosentrhaw emphasizes that “second-hand smoke can kill” (p.##).
• Still, tobacco company executives insist that they “were not fully aware of the long term damages caused by smoking” when they launched their nationwide advertising campaign (author’s last name p.##).
• Though bar owners disagree, Johnston maintains that banning smoking in all public places will not negatively affect bar business (author’s last name p.##).
• Jefferson claims that banning smoking in public places will hurt America’s economy (author’s last name p.##).
• Johnson refutes allegations that his personal finances have been in trouble for the past five years (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Whiley rejects the idea that the earth could have been formed by a massive explosion in space (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Lucci compares the house prices in Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Although they have stopped short of admitting that smoking causes cancer in humans, tobacco companies have admitted that “smoking causes cancer in laboratory rats” (p. ##).
• For years, local residents have been disputing the plans to build a new highway right through the center of town (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Residents contend that the new highway will lower property values (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• The Department of Transportation denies claims that the new bridge will damage the fragile ecosystem of the Potomac River (author’s last name, year, p. ##).
• Joley endorses the bridge, saying “our goal is to make this city more accessible to those who live outside of it” (p. ##).

Inference Verbs: These verbs indicate that there is some kind of argument, and that the quote shows either support of or disagreement with one side of the argument. Examples of Inference Verbs The author implies . The author suggests . The author thinks . Sample Sentences MLA Style

• By calling them ignorant, the author implies that they were unschooled and narrow minded (author’s last name p.##).
• Her preoccupation with her looks suggests that she is too superficial to make her a believable character (author’s last name p.##).
• Based on his research, we can assume Hatfield thinks that our treatment of our environment has been careless (author’s last name p.##).

One phrase that is often used to introduce a quotation is: According to the author, . . .

• According to the author, children with ADD have a shorter attention span than children without ADD (author’s last name, year, p. ##).

202-448-7036

At a Glance

• Quick Facts
• University Leadership
• History & Traditions
• Accreditation
• Consumer Information
• Our 10-Year Vision: The Gallaudet Promise
• Annual Report of Achievements (ARA)
• The Signing Ecosystem
• Not Your Average University

Our Community

• Library & Archives
• Technology Support
• Interpreting Requests
• Ombuds Support
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Profile & Web Edits

Visit Gallaudet

• Explore Our Campus
• Virtual Tour
• Maps & Directions
• Shuttle Bus Schedule
• Kellogg Conference Hotel
• Welcome Center
• National Deaf Life Museum
• Apple Guide Maps

Engage Today

• Work at Gallaudet / Clerc Center
• Social Media Channels
• University Wide Events
• Sponsorship Requests
• Data Requests
• Media Inquiries
• Gallaudet Today Magazine
• Giving at Gallaudet
• Financial Aid
• Human Resources
• Registrar’s Office
• Residence Life & Housing
• Safety & Security
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• University Communications
• Clerc Center

Gallaudet University, chartered in 1864, is a private university for deaf and hard of hearing students.

Copyright © 2025 Gallaudet University. All rights reserved.

• Accessibility
• Cookie Consent Notice
• Privacy Policy
• File a Report

800 Florida Avenue NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

How to Quote in an Essay: A Step-by-Step Guide with Examples

Have you ever found yourself staring at a perfect quote, unsure of how to incorporate it into your essay? Quoting effectively is a skill that every student should master, as it adds credibility and depth to your arguments. However, it can be a daunting task to navigate the intricacies of quoting in an essay.

Fear not! In this blog post, we will guide you through the art of quoting, providing you with practical tips and examples to help you seamlessly integrate quotes into your writing.

The Importance of Quoting in an Essay

Quoting plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of your essay. It serves two main purposes: establishing credibility and adding depth to your arguments. By incorporating quotes from reputable sources , you demonstrate that your ideas are supported by experts in the field. This helps to build trust with your readers and strengthens your overall argument.

Additionally, quoting allows you to provide evidence and examples that support your claims. It adds weight to your arguments by showcasing the thoughts and opinions of others who have studied the topic extensively. This not only adds depth to your essay but also helps to validate your own ideas.

To effectively use quotes in your essay, consider the following tips:

1. Choose quotes from credible sources: Ensure that the quotes you include are from reputable experts, scholars, or well-known publications.

2. Integrate quotes seamlessly: Avoid simply dropping quotes into your essay without any context. Instead, introduce the quote, provide a brief explanation, and then analyze its significance in relation to your argument.

3. Use quotes to support your own ideas: Quotes should be used to enhance and strengthen your own arguments, not replace them. Use quotes strategically to provide evidence and examples that support your claims.

4. Provide proper citation: Always include proper citation for any quotes you use. This not only gives credit to the original source but also helps your readers to locate the information if they wish to explore it further.

Different Types of Quotes

When it comes to incorporating quotes into your writing, it’s important to understand the different types and how to use them effectively. Let’s explore three common types of quotes: direct quotes, indirect quotes, and block quotes.

Direct quotes

These are exact words or phrases taken directly from a source and enclosed in quotation marks. They provide the reader with the original wording and are useful when you want to emphasize a specific point or capture the author’s unique expression.

Here is a good example from the economist article ‘The Economics of Thinness’ :

Today the perfect body is the “weasel bod”, says one Los Angelena, who is surrounded by women seeking physical perfection. 

Indirect quotes

Also known as paraphrasing , indirect quotes involve rephrasing someone else’s words in your own writing. They convey the same meaning as the original quote but are not enclosed in quotation marks. Indirect quotes are useful when you want to summarize or restate information from a source while maintaining your own voice.

In addition, they help you avoid over-reliance on quotes and demonstrate your understanding of the material. This is why you should only be quoting the most impactful sentences or phrases and give preferance to paraphrasing in all the other cases.

Here is a good example from the article exploring the relation between beauty standarts and women’s socio-economic mobility that quotes the research we have just mentioned:

The economist recently investigated the correlation between thinness and wealth – particularly for women – and the findings are rather striking. ‘The Economics of Thinness’  sheds light on the alarming correlation between body weight and financial prosperity. The study highlights that thinner women, on average, earn more than their heavier counterparts.

Block quotes

Block quotes are used when you want to include a longer quote of four or more lines. They are indented from the main text and do not require quotation marks. Block quotes are typically used to highlight significant passages or when the exact wording is crucial.

For example, if you were analyzing a poem, you might include a block quote from a poem to showcase the poet’s use of imagery and symbolism. Block quotes from a book or an article are only suitable in longer research papers or a thesis and should not be used in college essays.

How to Incorporate Quotes into Your Writing

When incorporating a quote into an essay, it is important to use signal phrases or introductory clauses to introduce the quote. These phrases serve as a way to smoothly integrate the quote into the text and provide context for the reader. Some common signal phrases include “according to,” “as stated by,” “in the words of,” and “as noted by.”

Additionally, introductory clauses can be used to introduce a quote, such as “In his/her article, [author name] argues that…” or “As [author name] explains,…” It is important to choose a signal phrase or introductory clause that fits the tone and style of the essay, while also accurately reflecting the source of the quote.

50 signal phrases to introduce a quote download PDF

Punctuating quotes correctly is crucial for maintaining clarity and accuracy in your writing. Remember to place quotation marks at the beginning and end of the quote, and use appropriate punctuation within the quote itself. For instance, if the quote ends with a question mark or exclamation point, include it within the quotation marks. If the quote is a complete sentence, place the punctuation inside the quotation marks as well.

Analyzing and Explaining Quotes

Analyzing and explaining quotes is a crucial step in any academic writing . It helps provide context, analyze the significance, and link them to your thesis statement . Here are some tips to effectively accomplish this:

1. Provide context and analysis:

• Introduce the quote by briefly explaining the background or the source;
• Analyze the quote by breaking it down and examining its key elements;
• Discuss the implications or interpretations of the quote within the context of your topic.

2. Explain the significance of quotes:

• Highlight why the quote is important in supporting your argument or providing evidence;
• Discuss how the quote contributes to the overall understanding of your topic.

3. Link quotes to your thesis statement:

• Clearly state how the quote supports or relates to your thesis statement,
• Connect the ideas presented in the quote to the main argument of your paper,
• Show how the quote strengthens your position or helps you make a persuasive case.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

When it comes to quoting, the important question in not only how to quote in an essay, but also how much to quote. Here are three key pitfalls to avoid:

1. Overusing quotes: While incorporating quotes from reputable sources can enhance your arguments, it is important not to rely too heavily on them. Instead, strive for a balance between your own analysis and supporting evidence from experts. Quote only the most relevant and impactful sentence to strengthen your point.

2. Misquoting or misinterpreting sources: Accuracy is paramount when citing sources. Misquoting or misinterpreting can lead to misinformation and weaken your argument. Always double-check your quotes and ensure they align with the original context.

3. Failing to cite properly: Proper citation is essential to acknowledge the work of others and avoid plagiarism . Failing to cite can result in severe consequences, including academic penalties. Familiarize yourself with the appropriate citation style for your discipline and consistently apply it throughout your writing.

Final Thoughts

Quoting is an essential tool in essay writing. It helps to establish credibility and adds depth to your arguments. By incorporating quotes from reputable sources, you can enhance the quality of your essay and provide evidence to support your claims. Remember to choose quotes wisely, integrate them seamlessly, and provide proper citation to ensure the effectiveness of your essay.

Good Transition Words for Essays: Enhancing Coherence and Flow

50 Problem Solution Essay Topics for College Students

50 Process Essay Topics for High School and College Students

Should College Athletes Be Paid: Pros, Cons, and Structure Tips for an Essay

The American Dream Essay: Best Topics and Controversies to Consider

Writing Center

• Academic Essays
• Approaching Writing
• Sentence-level Writing
• Write for Student-Run Media
• Writing in the Core
• Access Smartthinking
• TutorTrac Appointments
• SMART Space

Integrating Quotations in MLA Style

Integrating Quotations (MLA)

A reader may be able to make sense of a quotation dropped into a piece of writing, but introducing or integrating quotations into the flow of your sentence is the way to use them most effectively—to be sure that your reader knows what you mean. You have three options: 

• Introduce the quotation with a statement that puts it in context. A colon follows a formal statement or independent clause.
• Lynn Quitman Troyka warns us of the particular challenges of using quotations in research papers: “The greatest risk you take when you use quotations is that you will end up with choppy, incoherent sentences” (184). 
• Use a signal phrase followed by a comma or a signal verb followed by that to announce a quotation.
• According to Lynn Quitman Troyka, “. . ..”
• The narrator suggests that “. . ..”
• As Jake Barnes says, “. . . . . ..”
• Frye rejects this notion when he argues, “. . ..”
• Integrate the quotation fully into your sentence. The quotation and your words must add up to a complete sentence.
• We know the boy has learned a painful lesson when he says that his eyes “burned with anguish and anger” (Joyce 481). 
• Leaders are inspirational; they are concerned with “providing meaning or purpose in work for employees and creating meaning in the product for customers” (Ivancevich, Lorenzi, and Skinner 341).  
• Researchers found that firms with a strong corporate culture “based on a foundation of shared values” outperformed the other firms by a large margin (Quigley 42).

Quotations within Quotations:

Use single quotation marks to enclose a quotation within a quotation.

• Miller states, “Religions are examples of ‘noble lies’ aimed at uplifting human stature” (18).

Adding Material within Quotations:

Use square brackets to enclose material that you add to or change within a quotation to allow it to fit grammatically into a sentence. 

• Balko (2015) argues, “If they [policymakers] want to fight obesity, they’ll halt the creeping 

socialization of medicine” (p. 142).

• “Today, the [saturated fat] warnings remain a cornerstone of the government’s dietary guidelines,” O’Connor (2016) states, “though in recent years the American Heart Association has also begun to warn that too much added sugar may increase cardiovascular disease risk” (p.92). 

Block Quotations:

Indent longer quotations (more than four lines) ten spaces from the margin. Notice that quotation marks are not used to enclose material that is set off from the text and that the parenthetical reference is placed after the punctuation following the quotation. 

A socially responsible vision can make an organization more attractive to customers, potential employees, and investors.  As consultant Robert Rosen puts it,  

The best companies are values-based and performance-driven.  Their community involvement supports the mission of the business.  Modern employees want to work for companies who make a difference, their customers want to do business with them because they have solid reputations as good corporate citizens, and shareholders enjoy the value such companies represent over the long term. (9)

Shortening Quotations:

Use an ellipsis of three dots to shorten longer quotations by removing non-essential words and ideas from the middle of the quote.  The quotation must fit grammatically into the sentence even with the ellipsis.   It must also retain enough of the quotation so that it still makes sense in your essay and you do not distort its meaning.   You do not need to provide ellipses at the beginning or the end of the quoted material. 

Foer states, “My grandmother survived World War II barefoot, scavenging Eastern Europe for other people’s inedibles . . . So she never cared if I colored outside the lines, as long as I cut coupons along the dashes” (159). 

Complete quote: “My grandmother survived World War II barefoot, scavenging Eastern Europe for other people’s inedibles: rotting potatoes, discarded scraps of meat, skins and the bits that clung to bones and pits. So she never cared if I colored outside the lines, as long as I cut coupons along the dashes.” 

Quick tip about citing sources in MLA style

What’s a thesis, sample mla essays.

• Student Life
• Career Success
• Champlain College Online
• About Champlain College
• Centers of Experience
• Media Inquiries
• Contact Champlain
• Maps & Directions
• Consumer Information

• Generating Ideas
• Drafting and Revision
• Sources and Evidence
• Style and Grammar
• Specific to Creative Arts
• Specific to Humanities
• Specific to Sciences
• Specific to Social Sciences
• CVs, Résumés and Cover Letters
• Graduate School Applications
• Other Resources
• Hiatt Career Center
• University Writing Center
• Classroom Materials
• Course and Assignment Design
• UWP Instructor Resources
• Writing Intensive Requirement
• Criteria and Learning Goals
• Course Application for Instructors
• What to Know about UWS
• Teaching Resources for WI
• FAQ for Instructors
• FAQ for Students
• Journals on Writing Research and Pedagogy
• University Writing Program
• Degree Programs
• Graduate Programs
• Brandeis Online
• Summer Programs
• Undergraduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions
• Financial Aid
• Summer School
• Centers and Institutes
• Funding Resources
• Housing/Community Living
• Clubs and Organizations
• Community Service
• Brandeis Arts Engagement
• Rose Art Museum
• Our Jewish Roots
• Mission and Diversity Statements
• Administration
• Faculty & Staff
• Alumni & Friends
• Parents & Families
• Campus Calendar
• Directories
• New Students
• Shuttle Schedules
• Support at Brandeis

Writing Resources

Phrases for introducing sources and quotations.

This handout is available for download in DOCX format and PDF format .

Capturing Authorial Action through Summaries or Paraphrasing

These phrases alert your reader that you as a writer are about to summarize or paraphrase another idea established by an authority on a chosen topic. Note that while some of these are quite neutral, others allow you to imply things about the quote’s tone, similarity, contrast, and/or significance in relation to other sources or to your larger argument.

Author X…

• acknowledges that [blank].
• agrees that [blank].
• argues that [blank].
• believes that [blank].
• celebrates the fact that [blank].
• claims that [blank].
• complains that [blank].
• concedes that [blank].
• demonstrates that [blank].
• deplores the tendency to [blank].
• denies/does not deny that [blank].
• emphasizes that [blank].
• insists that [blank].
• maintains that [blank].
• observes that [blank].
• opines that [blank].
• questions whether [blank].
• refutes the claim that [blank].
• reminds us that [blank].
• reports that [blank].
• suggests that [blank].
• urges us to [blank].

Introducing Quotations

These phrases alert your reader that you are about to quote directly from another source. As with the phrases above, some are quite neutral, while others allow you to imply things about the quote’s tone, similarity, contrast, and/or significance in relation to other sources or to your larger argument.

• X states, “ [blank] .”
• As X puts it, “ [blank] .”
• According to X, “ [blank] .”
• X writes, “ [blank] .”
• In her book/essay [blank] , X maintains that “ [blank] .”
• Writing in the journal [blank] , X complains that “ [blank] .”
• In X's view, “ [blank] .”
• X agrees when she writes, “ [blank] .”
• X disagrees when he writes, “ [blank] .”
• X complicates matters further when they write, “ [blank] .”

Explaining Quotations

Remember that every paragraph must provide clarification, interpretation, or necessary analysis of a supplied quotation or paraphrase; this allows you to explain not only the quote itself, but how it fits into your larger argument. The phrases listed here are just some of the ways in which you can alert your reader that you are about to rephrase, clarify, expand, and otherwise analyze the source you have previously introduced.

• Basically/Essentially, X is saying [blank] .
• In other words, X believes [blank] .
• In making this comment, X urges us to [blank] .
• X is corroborating the idea that [blank] .
• X's point is that [blank] .
• The core/gist/meaning/significance of X' s argument is that [blank] .

And of course, remember that all outside sources must be cited correctly! For more information on how to effectively and accurately incorporate outside sources into your writing, please refer to the handout on “Working with Quotations.”

Adapted from Gerald Graff and Cathy Birkenstein, They Say/I Say: The Moves that Matter in Academic Writing (New York: W.W. Norton, 2014) and David Glen Smith (http://www.davidglensmith.com/Tomball/supplemental/signal-phrases.pdf) by Robert B. Cochran, Brandeis University Writing Program, 2020.

• Resources for Students
• Writing Intensive Instructor Resources
• Research and Pedagogy

• PRO Courses Guides New Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade Sign In
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help Pro About Us Random Article Quizzes Request a New Article Community Dashboard This Or That Game Forums Popular Categories Arts and Entertainment Artwork Books Movies Computers and Electronics Computers Phone Skills Technology Hacks Health Men's Health Mental Health Women's Health Relationships Dating Love Relationship Issues Hobbies and Crafts Crafts Drawing Games Education & Communication Communication Skills Personal Development Studying Personal Care and Style Fashion Hair Care Personal Hygiene Youth Personal Care School Stuff Dating All Categories Arts and Entertainment Finance and Business Home and Garden Relationship Quizzes Cars & Other Vehicles Food and Entertaining Personal Care and Style Sports and Fitness Computers and Electronics Health Pets and Animals Travel Education & Communication Hobbies and Crafts Philosophy and Religion Work World Family Life Holidays and Traditions Relationships Youth
• Browse Articles
• Learn Something New
• Quizzes Hot
• Happiness Hub
• This Or That Game
• Train Your Brain
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow
• Log in / Sign up
• Education and Communications
• College University and Postgraduate
• Academic Writing

How to Put a Quote in an Essay

Last Updated: September 1, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD and by wikiHow staff writer, Danielle Blinka, MA, MPA . Christopher Taylor is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of English at Austin Community College in Texas. He received his PhD in English Literature and Medieval Studies from the University of Texas at Austin in 2014. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,684,403 times.

Using a direct quote in your essay is a great way to support your ideas with concrete evidence, which you need to support your thesis. To select a good quote , look for a passage that supports your argument and is open to analysis. Then, incorporate that quote into your essay, and make sure you properly cite it based on the style guide you’re using.

Sample Quotes

Incorporating a Short Quote

• For instance, let's say this is the quote you want to use: "The brown leaves symbolize the death of their relationship, while the green buds suggest new opportunities will soon unfold."
• If you just type that sentence into your essay and put quotes around it, your reader will be disoriented. Instead, you could incorporate it into a sentence like this: "The imagery in the story mirrors what's happening in Lia's love life, as 'The brown leaves symbolize the death of their relationship, while the green buds suggest new opportunities will soon unfold.'"

• "Critic Alex Li says, 'The frequent references to the color blue are used to suggest that the family is struggling to cope with the loss of their matriarch.'"
• "According to McKinney’s research, 'Adults who do yoga at least three times a week have lower blood pressure, better sleeping patterns, and fewer everyday frustrations.'"
• "Based on several recent studies, people are more likely to sit on the park benches when they're shaded by trees."

• You still need to use quotation marks even if you're only quoting a few words.
• If you're in doubt, it's best to be cautious and use quotes.

• For example, let’s say you used the quote, “According to McKinney’s research, ‘Adults who do yoga at least three times a week have lower blood pressure, better sleeping patterns, and fewer everyday frustrations.’” Your commentary might read, “This shows that yoga can have a positive impact on people’s health, so incorporating it into the workplace can help improve employee health outcomes. Since yoga makes employees healthier, they’ll likely have reduced insurance costs.”

• When you use a paraphrase, you still need to provide commentary that links the paraphrased material back to your thesis and ideas.

Using a Long Quote

• The reader will recognize that the material is a direct quote because it's set off from the rest of the text. That's why you don't need to use quotation marks. However, you will include your citation at the bottom.

• "In The Things They Carried , the items carried by soldiers in the Vietnam war are used to both characterize them and burden the readers with the weight they are carrying: The things they carried were largely determined by necessity. Among the necessities or near-necessities were P-38 can openers, pocket knives, heat tabs, wristwatches, dog tags, mosquito repellent, chewing gum, candy cigarettes, salt tablets, packets of Kool-Aid, lighters, matches, sewing kits, Military Payment Certificates, C rations, and two or three canteens of water." (O'Brien 2)

Variation: When you're citing two or more paragraphs, you must use block quotes, even if the passage you want to quote is less than four lines long. You should indent the first line of each paragraph an extra quarter inch. Then, use ellipses (…) at the end of one paragraph to transition to the next.

• Your block quote will use the same spacing as the rest of your paper, which will likely be double-spacing.

• For example, “According to Li, “Rosa is the first sister to pick a rose because she’s the only one who’s begun to move on after their mother’s death” might become “According to Li, “Rosa is the first sister to pick a rose because she’s … begun to move on after their mother’s death.”
• Don’t eliminate words to change the meaning of the original text. For instance, it’s not appropriate to use an ellipsis to change “plants did not grow faster when exposed to poetry” to “plants did … grow faster when exposed to poetry.”

• For example, let’s say you want to use the quote, “All of them experienced a more relaxed, calmer disposition after doing yoga for 6 months.” This doesn’t tell the reader who you’re talking about. You could use brackets to say, “All of [the teachers in the study] experienced a more relaxed, calmer disposition after doing yoga for 6 months.”
• However, if you know the study is talking about teachers, you couldn’t use brackets to say, “All of [society experiences] a more relaxed, calmer disposition after doing yoga for 6 months.”

• If you don't explain your quote well, then it's not helping your ideas. You can't expect the reader to connect the quote back to your thesis for you.

• For instance, you may prefer to use a long block quote to present a passage from a literary work that demonstrates the author's style. However, let's say you were using a journal article to provide a critic's perspective on an author's work. You may not need to directly quote an entire paragraph word-for-word to get their point across. Instead, use a paraphrase.

Tip: If you’re unsure about a quote, ask yourself, “Can I paraphrase this in more concise language and not lose any support for my argument?” If the answer is yes, a quote is not necessary.

Citing Your Quote

• An MLA citation will look like this: (Lopez 24)
• For sources with multiple authors, separate their names with the word “and:” (Anderson and Smith 55-56) or (Taylor, Gomez, and Austin 89)
• If you use the author’s name in your lead-in to the quote, you just need to provide the year in parentheses: According to Luz Lopez, “the green grass symbolizes a fresh start for Lia (24).”

• An APA citation for a direct quote looks like this: (Ronan, 2019, p. 10)
• If you’re citing multiple authors, separate their names with the word “and:” (Cruz, Hanks, and Simmons, 2019, p. 85)
• If you incorporated the author’s name into your lead-in, you can just give the year and page number: Based on Ronan’s (2019, p. 10) analysis, “coffee breaks improve productivity.”

• For instance, a Chicago Style citation will look like this: (Alexander 2019, 125)
• If you’re quoting a source with multiple authors, separate them with the word “and:” (Pattinson, Stewart, and Green 2019, 175)
• If you already incorporated the author’s name into your quote, then you can just provide the year and page number: According to Alexander, “the smell of roses increases feelings of happiness” (2019, 125).

• For MLA, you'd cite an article like this: Lopez, Luz. "A Fresh Blossom: Imagery in 'Her Darkest Sunshine.'" Journal of Stories , vol. 2, no. 5, 2019, p. 15-22. [17] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
• In APA, you'd cite an article like this: Lopez, Luz. (2019). A Fresh Blossom: Imagery in "Her Darkest Sunshine." Journal of Stories , 2(5), 15-22. [18] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source
• For Chicago Style, your article citation would look like this: Lopez, Luz. "A Fresh Blossom: Imagery in 'Her Darkest Sunshine.'" Journal of Stories 2 no. 4 (2019): 15-22. [19] X Trustworthy Source Purdue Online Writing Lab Trusted resource for writing and citation guidelines Go to source

Selecting a Quote

Tip: Quotes are most effective when the original language of the person or text you’re quoting is worth repeating word-for-word.

• If you’re struggling to explain the quote or link it back to your argument, then it’s likely not a good idea to include it in your essay.

• Paraphrases and summaries work just like a direct quote, except that you don’t need to put quotation marks around them because you’re using your own words to restate ideas. However, you still need to cite the sources you used.

Community Q&A

• Always cite your quotes properly. If you don't, it is considered plagiarism. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.ursinus.edu/live/files/1160-integrating-quotespdf
• ↑ https://lsa.umich.edu/sweetland/undergraduates/writing-guides/how-do-i-incorporate-quotes-.html
• ↑ https://libguides.lahc.edu/mla/intext
• ↑ https://advice.writing.utoronto.ca/using-sources/quotations/
• ↑ https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/paraphrasing-summarising-and-quoting
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_quotations.html
• ↑ https://guides.libraries.psu.edu/apaquickguide/intext
• ↑ https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/tools_citationguide/citation-guide-2.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_and_style_guide.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/reference_list_articles_in_periodicals.html
• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/chicago_manual_17th_edition/cmos_formatting_and_style_guide/periodicals.html
• ↑ https://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/quotations/

About This Article

Medical Disclaimer

The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

Read More...

To put a quote in an essay, incorporate it directly into a sentence if it's shorter than 4 typed lines. For example, you could write "According to researchers," and then insert the quote. If a quote is longer than 4 typed lines, set it off from the rest of the paragraph, and don't put quotes around it. After the quote, include an in-text citation so readers know where it's from. The right way to cite the quote will depend on whether you're using MLA, APA, or Chicago Style formatting. For more tips from our English co-author, like how to omit words from a quote, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

• Send fan mail to authors

Reader Success Stories

Bobby Hilltop

May 26, 2017

Did this article help you?

Sarah Okyere

Mar 29, 2019

May 19, 2019

Feb 6, 2017

Sari Ningsih

Mar 28, 2016

Featured Articles

Trending Articles

Most Popular

How to introduce a quote in an essay.

Quotes can add a lot of weight to your arguments in an essay. But knowing how to introduce them properly is key. Think of a quote as a piece of evidence that supports your point. Just dropping it into your essay isn’t enough—you need to set it up so it fits naturally and strengthens your argument.

In this guide, we’ll explore some easy and effective ways to introduce quotes in your writing. Whether you’re new to essay writing or just looking to brush up on your skills, these tips will help you use quotes smoothly and effectively. Let’s get started and see how you can make quotes work for you!

How to Start an Essay with a Quote by Choosing the Right One

Picking the right quote for your essay is like finding the right tool for a job—it makes everything work better. A well-chosen quote can strengthen your argument and add depth to your writing. But how do you make sure you’re picking the right one ?

First, make sure your quote is directly related to your point. If you’re writing about the importance of perseverance, a quote about determination from a famous figure can add weight to your argument.

For example, if your essay is about overcoming obstacles, you might use a quote like, “ The only way to achieve the impossible is to believe it is possible ,” from Charles Kingsleigh in Alice in Wonderland.

This quote highlights the power of belief and determination, perfectly aligning with your topic.

Second, always understand the context of the quote. Misinterpreting a quote can confuse your readers and weaken your argument. Read the surrounding text from where the quote is taken to grasp its full meaning.

For example, if you quote Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech, understand that it’s about the vision for racial equality and justice. Using it to discuss unrelated topics like personal dreams or ambitions would misrepresent its powerful context.

“ I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character .”

You see that this quote should be used to support discussions on equality and justice, not just any dream or aspiration like “I have a dream of eating a sandwich.”

Ways to Introduce a Quote

Introducing a quote in your essay can make your argument stronger and more persuasive. However, it’s important to know how to do it properly so that it flows naturally and adds value to your writing. Here are three simple and effective methods to introduce quotes in your essays: using a signal phrase , blending into your sentence , and using a colon .

One of the most common and straightforward ways to introduce a quote is by using a signal phrase. This method helps to clearly attribute the quote to its source, making it clear to the reader who is speaking.

According to Dr. Smith, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

By using “According to Dr. Smith,” you let your readers know that the following words are Dr. Smith’s and not your own. Signal phrases are particularly useful when you want to give credit to an expert or an authority in the field you are discussing.

Other examples of signal phrases include “ As noted by, ” “ In the words of, ” and “ As stated by .” These phrases help you seamlessly introduce quotes and integrate them into your writing, giving proper credit to the original author. They make your essay more credible and show that you have done your research.

Another effective way to introduce a quote is to blend it into your own sentence. This method makes the quote feel like a natural part of your argument and helps maintain the flow of your writing.

When discussing morality, John Locke argues that “the end of law is not to abolish or restrain, but to preserve and enlarge freedom.”

By integrating the quote into your own sentence, you make it clear how the quote supports your point. This method is especially useful when the quote is directly relevant to the point you are making. It allows you to present the quote as part of your narrative rather than as an isolated piece of text. Blending quotes into your sentences can also make your writing more engaging and easier to read.

You can use phrases like “ argues that ,” “ believes that ,” or “ suggests that ” to smoothly integrate quotes into your sentences. This technique helps to maintain the readability of your essay while incorporating valuable information from your sources.

Using a colon to introduce a quote is another effective technique, especially for longer quotes or when your lead-in is a complete sentence. This method is great for drawing attention to the quote and making it stand out.

Aristotle once said: “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet.”

By using a colon, you clearly separate your own words from the quote, giving it emphasis.

This method works well when the quote is significant and you want to give it extra importance. It’s also useful when the quote itself is a complete thought or statement that can stand on its own.

During a discussion on perseverance, Winston Churchill famously declared: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

The colon helps to set the stage for the impactful quote that follows.

How to Format Your Quote

Formatting quotes correctly is important for giving credit to the original author and maintaining the flow of your essay. Different citation styles have different rules, so it’s important to follow the required style. Here are some examples:

APA Style : In APA style, include the author’s last name, year of publication, and page number. For example: According to Smith (2020), “Education is the key to unlocking potential” (p. 15).

MLA Style : In MLA style, include the author’s last name and the page number. For example: Smith argues, “Education is the key to unlocking potential” (Smith 15).

Chicago Style : In Chicago style, use footnotes or endnotes to cite your sources. For example: Smith, John. Unlocking Potential Through Education . New York: Education Press, 2020.

Confused When Referencing? Try our Free Citation Generator

How to explain a quote in your essay.

Using a quote in your essay is just the first step. You need to explain why it matters and how it supports your point. Don’t just drop the quote and move on ; dive into its meaning and relevance.

For example, if you quote Albert Einstein saying, “ Imagination is more important than knowledge ,” don’t leave it at that. Explain why this quote is significant.

This quote emphasizes that creativity drives innovation and progress. While knowledge provides the foundation, it is imagination that pushes boundaries and leads to new discoveries. By highlighting the value of imagination, Einstein suggests that thinking beyond the obvious can lead to groundbreaking ideas.

When analyzing and explaining the quote, you show your understanding of the material and how it fits into your argument. It helps your readers see the connection between the quote and your main points, which makes your essay more persuasive and coherent. So, always take the time to unpack the quote and relate it to your discussion. Happy writing!

How to put a quote as a hook in an essay?

Using a quote as a hook can grab your reader’s attention right from the start. Choose a quote that is intriguing, relevant to your topic, and thought-provoking. Begin your essay with this quote, and then follow it with a few sentences explaining its relevance to your essay’s main idea. This sets the tone and engages the reader immediately.

How to introduce a quote with no author?

When you have a quote with no author, you can use a descriptive phrase or the source’s title instead. For example, you might write: According to the article “The Benefits of Education,” “Education is the key to unlocking potential.” This method attributes the quote to its source, even without a specific author’s name.

How do you introduce a quote in a summary?

Introducing a quote in a summary involves seamlessly integrating it into your writing to support your points. Start by providing a brief context for the quote, then introduce it with a signal phrase. For instance, you could write: As noted in the report, “Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong learning.” This helps keep the flow and clarity of your summary.

How do you indicate a quote in an essay?

To indicate a quote in an essay, use quotation marks around the quoted text. Additionally, introduce the quote with a signal phrase and follow the appropriate citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.). For example, you might write: According to Smith, “Effective communication is crucial for team success” (Smith 23). This clearly distinguishes the quoted material from your own words and gives proper credit to the source.

Follow us on Reddit for more insights and updates.

Comments (0)

Welcome to A*Help comments!

We’re all about debate and discussion at A*Help.

We value the diverse opinions of users, so you may find points of view that you don’t agree with. And that’s cool. However, there are certain things we’re not OK with: attempts to manipulate our data in any way, for example, or the posting of discriminative, offensive, hateful, or disparaging material.

Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

More from How to Write an Academic Assignment

Oct 31 2024

How to Write Common App Essay

Oct 19 2024

How to Revise an Essay

Sep 16 2024

How To Write a Why Us Essay

10 min read

Remember Me

Is English your native language ? Yes No

What is your profession ? Student Teacher Writer Other

Forgotten Password?

Username or Email

Writing Studio

Who said what introducing and contextualizing quotations.

In an effort to make our handouts more accessible, we have begun converting our PDF handouts to web pages. Download this page as a PDF: Introducing and Contextualizing Quotations Return to Writing Studio Handouts

Quotations (as well as paraphrases and summaries) play an essential role in academic writing, from literary analyses to scientific research papers; they are part of a writer’s ever-important evidence, or support, for his or her argument.

But oftentimes, writers aren’t sure how to incorporate quotes and thus shove them into paragraphs without much attention to logic or style.

For better quotations (and better writing), try these tips.

Identify Clearly Where the Borrowed Material Begins

The quotation should include a signal phrase, or introductory statement, which tells the reader whom or what you are citing. The phrase may indicate the author’s name or credentials, the title of the source, and/or helpful background information.

Sample signal phrases

• According to (author/article)
• Author + verb

Some key verbs for signal phrases

• says, writes, accepts, criticizes, describes, disagrees, discusses, explains, identifies, insists, offers, points out, suggests, warns

Two Signal Phrase Examples

• According to scholar Mary Poovey, Shelley’s narrative structure, which allows the creature to speak from a first-person point of view, forces the reader “to identify with [the creature’s] anguish and frustration” (259).
• In an introduction to Frankenstein in 1831, the author Mary Shelley describes even her own creative act with a sense of horror: “The idea so possessed my mind, that a thrill of fear ran through me, and I wished to exchange that ghastly image of my fancy for the realities around” (172).

Create Context for the Material

Don’t just plop in quotes and expect the reader to understand. Explain, expand, or refute the quote. Remember, quotations should be used to support your ideas and points.

Here’s one simple, useful pattern: Introduce quote, give quote, explain quote.

“Introduce, Give, Explain” Example 1

[Introduce] Dorianne Laux’s “Girl in the Doorway” uses many metaphors to evoke a sense of change between the mother and daughter: [Give] “I stand at the dryer, listening/through the thin wall between us, her voice/rising and falling as she describes her new life” (3-5). [Explain] The “thin wall” is literal but also references their communication barrier; “rising and falling” is the sound of the girl’s voice but also a reference to her tumultuous preteen emotions.

“Introduce, Give, Explain” Example 2 (longer block quotation)

[Introduce] After watching the cottagers with pleasure, Frankenstein’s creature has a startling moment of revelation and horror when he sees his own reflection for the first time:

[Give] I had admired the perfect forms of my cottagers — their grace, beauty, and delicate complexions: but how was I terrified, when I viewed myself in a transparent pool! At first I started back, unable to believe that it was indeed I who was reflected in the mirror; and when I became fully convinced that I was in reality the monster that I am, I was filled with the bitterest sensations of despondence and mortification. Alas! I did not yet entirely know the fatal effects of this miserable deformity. (76)

[Explain] This literal moment of reflection is key in the creature’s growing reflection of self: In comparing himself with humans, he sees himself not just as different but as “the monster that I am.”

Additional Advice

Pay attention to proper format and grammar (See VU Writing Studio handout Quotation Basics: Grammar, Punctuation, and Style ), and always, always credit your source in order to avoid plagiarism.

Citation styles (e.g. MLA, APA, or Chicago) vary by discipline. Ask your professor if you are uncertain, and then check style guides for formats. (The above examples use MLA format.)

Last revised: 06/2008 | Adapted for web delivery: 06/2021

In order to access certain content on this page, you may need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader or an equivalent PDF viewer software.