block quotes in an essay

APA Style 7th Edition: Citing Your Sources

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• Block Quotes

About Block Quotes

Block quote example.

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• Any quotation containing 40 or more words should be formatted as a Block Quote
• Do not use quotation marks to enclose block quotations.  Do use double quotation marks to enclose any quoted material within a block quotation
• Place period at the end of the quote rather than after the citation
• Block quotes should start on a new line and indent the block about ½ inch from the left margin
• If there are additional paragraphs within the block quote, indent the first line of each an additional half inch.

For further information and examples, consult pages 92 and 171 of the APA Manual.

Accord to Siegel and Hartzell (2004)            

trauma and loss requires an understanding of the low road and its connection to patterns of experiences from the past. The passing of unresolved issues from generation to generation produces and perpetuates unnecessary emotional suffering. If our own issues remain unresolved, there is a strong possibility that the disorganization within our minds can createdisorganization in our children’s minds. (p. 183)

During gestation, the numerous genes in the nucleus of each cell become expressed and the genes determine what proteins become produced and when and how to shape the body’s structure.  In utero brain development enables neurons to grow and move to their proper locations in the skull and begin to set up the interconnections that create the circuitry of this complex organ of the nervous system.  (Siegel & Hartzell, 2004)

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Erin Wright Writing

Writing-Related Software Tutorials

Block Quotations, Part 1: How to Introduce Block Quotations

By Erin Wright

The Purpose of Block Quotations

Although block quotations were originally a typesetting mechanism, 1 today they serve three purposes: (1) improve readability by visually separating lengthy quotations from the surrounding text, (2) help to ensure that the quoted material is not mistaken for original content, and (3) display quoted material that may need special formatting such as letters reproduced in their entirety or short excerpts of poetry or song lyrics.

Block Quotation Lengths

Generally, long quotations should be formatted as block quotations and short quotations should be formatted as run-in quotations. However, our primary style guides are not on the same page when it comes to defining “long” and “short.”

The Chicago Manual of Style (Chicago style) recommends using block quotations for all quoted material over ninety-nine words, multi-paragraph quotations (even if less than a hundred words), and content that needs special formatting. 2 Readers who follow Chicago’s student version, commonly called Turabian, should see the Style Guide Alert below.

The Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA style) suggests using block quotations for all quoted material exceeding thirty-nine words. 3

The MLA Handbook advises block quotations for quoted prose that runs over four lines or poetry that runs more than three lines. 4 Unfortunately, line length can vary dramatically when viewed on different mobile devices, so this recommendation isn’t particularly helpful outside of printed academic projects.

Style Guide Alert

Chicago’s student version, A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations by Kate L. Turabian, differs from the original manual on the length of block quotations.

Turabian recommends using block quotations for any prose quotation of five lines or more and any poetry quotation of two lines or more. Like the original manual, Turabian says that shorter quotations can be placed in block quotations if special emphasis is needed. 5

With apologies to longtime readers who have read this many times before, if you are wondering which style guide to follow , I always recommend Chicago style first because it is a comprehensive and versatile option for general business writing as well as most fiction and nonfiction publishing.

How to Introduce Block Quotations

Block quotations that start with a complete sentence are usually introduced with a complete sentence ending with a colon . 6

(All of the examples below use Lorem ipsum placeholder text to maintain emphasis on formatting.)

“ Block Quotations, Part 2: How to Format Block Quotations ” covers structural issues such as indentation sizes, quotation mark usage, multi-paragraph indentation, and citation placement.

“ Block Quotations, Part 3: Block Quotation Issues and Concerns ” discusses special considerations when using block quotations such as copyright issues, reader expectations, and alternative options.

If you just can’t get enough of quotations (because, seriously, who can get enough of quotations?), check out my last post, “ How to Introduce Run-in Quotations .”

1. “ Block Quotation ,” Wikipedia , last modified October 24, 2018.

2. The Chicago Manual of Style , 17th ed. (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2017), 13.10.

3. Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association , 7th ed. (Washington, DC: American Psychological Association, 2020), 8.27.

4. MLA Handbook , 8th ed. (New York: Modern Language Association of America, 2016), 1.3.2–3.

5. Kate L. Turabian, A Manual for Writers of Research Papers, Theses, and Dissertations , 9th ed. (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2018), 25.2, 25.2.2, 25.2.2.2.

6. MLA Handbook , 1.3.2.

7. The Chicago Manual of Style , 13.17 .

8. The Chicago Manual of Style ,13.20.

9. The Chicago Manual of Style , 13 . 23.

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Home / Guides / Citation Guides / MLA Format / Using short quotes and block quotes in MLA

Using short quotes and block quotes in MLA

Quotations (also known as quotes) are the exact words that are taken directly from a text and repeated by someone other than the original author. When you use the exact words and sentence structure as your source, you are quoting that source. When using quotes in your writing, you need to copy the words exactly as they appear in the source.

Quotes should be used sparingly because the majority of the text should be your own ideas. Keep quotations short and to the point to keep your readers interested. Quotes are most effective when the exact words of the source are particularly well suited for your purposes and back up your own ideas.

Short quotes vs. block quotes

There are several ways to incorporate quotations into your text. You can include short quotes of four lines or less, which are incorporated into your text and are set off from the text with quotation marks.

If the section you wish to quote is longer than four lines, you can use a block quote . Block quotes are set off from the text in a separate paragraph that has larger indents at the left margin.

The MLA Handbook says this about quotes:

Construct a clear, grammatically correct sentence that allows you to introduce or incorporate a quotation accurately. When you quote, reproduce the source text exactly. Do not make changes in the spelling, capitalization, interior punctuation, italicization, or accents that appear in the source. Generally place citations at the end of your sentence or quotation. (253)

The quote above from the MLA Handbook is formatted in block quote style.

When using quotes in your papers, you must include the author’s last name and the page number(s) from which the quotation is taken as an in-text citation, unless you have named the author is the sentence preceding the quote. A full reference should appear in your Works Cited page.

Using short quotes in MLA

When you want to cite a section of your source that is four lines or less, you set off the quote in the text with double quotation marks directly before and after the quoted material. End punctuation goes before the final quotation mark.

Quotations can be integrated into a text in several ways.

1. Use the quote as a sentence

She recalled the moment of her husband’s passing. “John was talking, then he wasn’t” (Didion 10).

2. Directly integrate the quote into the sentence

Didion writes that for many months, “there has been occasions on which I was incapable of thinking rationally” and that she was “thinking as small children think, as if my thoughts or wishes had the power to reverse the narrative, change the outcome” (35).

3. Place the quotation in the middle of the sentence

Joan Didion says that after returning to her apartment after her husband’s death, she felt that, “there must be certain things I needed to do,” when she got home from the hospital (28).

Guidelines that apply to all short quote formats:

• All punctuation should be the same in the quote as in the source text.
• The MLA in-text citation should always appear in parentheses at the end of your sentence, regardless of the location of the quote within the sentence.
• If the source does not use page numbers, do not include a number in the parenthetical citation.
• If the source does not have an author’s name, you should use the title of the work or the first item listed in the full reference in the parenthetical citation instead.
• Punctuation such as periods, commas, and semicolons are placed after the parenthetical citation.

Quoting poetry

When quoting up to three short lines of poetry, indicate breaks in verse by placing a forward slash at the end of each verse line. A space should precede and follow the slash. If there is a stanza break within the quotation, indicate this with a double slash ( // ).

“Tell me, what is it you plan to do / with your one wild and precious life?” (Oliver 94).

“What is my name? // What is the name of the deep breath I would take / over and over” (Oliver 125).

Block quotes

If you want to quote a section of text that is longer than four lines or a section of poetry that is longer than three lines, use a block quote. Block quotes are also used when quoting lines from a play.

You introduce the block quote with a sentence in your own words. You want to let your reader know who the quote is from and why you are including it.

Joan Didion ends her first chapter by laying out her goal for writing the book:

This is my attempt to make sense of the period that followed, the weeks and then months that cut loose any fixed idea I had ever had about death, about illness, about probability and luck, about good fortune and bad, about marriage and children and memory, about grief, about the ways in which people do and do not deal with the fact that life ends, about the shallowness of sanity, about life itself. (7)

How to format a block quote

• Lead into the quote with a summary sentence that lets the reader know why you are including the quote.
• End the sentence before quote with a colon (unless the grammatical connection between the sentence leading into the quote requires some other punctuation or none at all).
• Start a new line.
• Indent the quote ½ inch or five spaces from the left margin for the entire quote (not just the first line).
• Do not use quotation marks.
• Double space the quote.
• Put the parenthetical citation after the final punctuation mark in the quote.
• Comment on the quote after using it. Do not end a paragraph with a block quote. You should always have text after it.

Adding or omitting words in quotations

• If you add words to a quotation, enclose them in brackets like [this].
• If you omit words in a quotation, use an ellipsis, which is three periods separated by spaces ( . . . ) to show where the words were removed.

You may want to add or omit words in quotations to make them clearer, shorten them, or help them to fit grammatically into your sentence.

Additional block quote formatting for prose

• If you are directly quoting one paragraph or part of one, do not indent the first line of the block quote more than the rest of the quote.
• If you are quoting two or more paragraphs and the first sentence of the quote is also the first sentence of a paragraph in the source, indent the first line of each paragraph an additional ½ inch or five spaces.
• If the first sentence of a multi-paragraph quote is not the first sentence of a paragraph in the source, indent only the first line of the second paragraph ½ inch or five spaces.

Formatting block quotes for poetry

Format it as you would prose unless the poem has unusual spacing or formatting.

• Indent ½ inch or five spaces from the left margin.
• Do not add any quotation marks unless they appear in the source.
• If the line of poetry does not fit on one line in the paper, continue it on the next line, but indent that line an additional ½ inch or five spaces (like a hanging indent).
• When citing longer sections of poetry, keep the formatting as close to the original as possible.

In her poem, Rain, Mary Oliver describes the sensation of rain on a tree:

All afternoon it rained, then

such power came down from the clouds

on a yellow thread,

as authoritative as God is supposed to be.

When it hit the tree, her body

Opened forever. (3)

Formatting block quotes for drama/plays

Formatting quotes from plays has slightly different rules than prose and poetry.

To format dialogue from plays:

• Begin with the name of the character speaking printed in all capital letters followed by a period.
• Start the quotation. If the line a character is saying needs more than one line, indent the subsequent lines a ½ inch or five spaces.
• Some lines of dialogue start with extra spaces between the character name and the first line of dialogue. Print the dialogue exactly as it appears in the play, including the extra spaces.
• When the dialogue shifts to a new character, follow the pattern above.
• For the in-text citation, cite the act, scene, and line of the quote instead of the page number.

ROMEO.                                     By a name

I know not how to tell thee who I am.

My name, dear saint, is hateful to myself,

Because it is an enemy to thee.

Had I it written, I would tear the word.

JULIET. My ears have yet not drunk a hundred words

Of thy tongue’s uttering, yet I know the sound.

Art thou not Romeo, and a Montague?

ROMEO. Neither, fair maid, if either thee dislike. (Shakespeare 2.2.54-61)

• Works Cited

Didion, Joan. A Year of Magical Thinking . Vintage International, 2006.

MLA Handbook.  9th ed., Modern Language Association of America, 2021.

Oliver, Mary. New and Selected Poems. Vol. 1, Beacon Press, 2004.

Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet . Arden Shakespeare , edited by René Weis, Bloomsbury, 2012, 118–338. Drama Online , https://doi.org/10.5040/9781408160152.00000039.

Published October 27, 2020. Updated July 18, 2021.

By Catherine Sigler. Catherine has a Ph.D. in English Education and has taught college-level writing for 15 years.

MLA Formatting Guide

MLA Formatting

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Block Quotes

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Block quotation is a method of formatting to highlight sections of directly quoted text in your writing. Direct quotes are usually integrated directly into your own text, but when quotes meet certain guidelines, block quotations are used instead. Though rules vary among citation styles, this example focuses on APA and MLA, as they are the most common styles.

Block quotes should be used sparingly. They are not intended for shorter essays because they take up extra space. Do not use block quotes just to fill space or try to reach a certain page length. For maximum impact, use them judiciously.

Block quotations are only used if the text is longer than 40 words (APA) or four lines (MLA). Shorter quotes should be integrated directly into your text.

The meaning of “four lines” for MLA can be unclear, so if you are unsure, consult with your instructor about whether a quote is four lines and if you need to use a block quote.

Don’t just drop a block quote into your own text without any explanation or context. Just like any other source you are using, always provide context and a lead-in when you use a block quote. Also, just like any other source, provide some follow-up after the quote to tie the information to your own writing.

Punctuation

Place a colon at the end of the last line before the block quote. This indicates that the quotation should be read seamlessly with your own text. Punctuate the text of the quote exactly as the original source does.

TIP: Use block quotes only when the author’s original words cannot be paraphrased or summarized. If you can say it just as well, paraphrase or summarize instead.

Double-space all lines. Do not add an extra space before or after the block quote. Just continue double spacing throughout your text.

Just like any other source, block quotes still need a citation. Note the placement of the punctuation in the example below. Typically, the punctuation would be placed after the citation, but after a block quote, the punctuation is placed first.

Quotation Marks

Unlike quotes integrated into your text, block quotes do not need quotation marks.

Indentation

Indent all lines of the block quote. For APA and MLA, indent one-half inch. Do not indent from the right side margin.

Ask Yourself: Do I need this entire section? Does every word help illustrate my point?  If you are using a block quote, make sure you really need the entire section you are using. If you don’t, choose the most important part and integrate it into your own text instead of using a block quote.

Scholars have explored the facets of good and evil in parallel characters in the  Harry Potter  series with frequent emphasis on the protagonist and antagonist and “absolute” virtues in each. Through exploring the grey areas of morality in other characters, Chevelier (2005) asserts that each main character is acting as an “absolute” by using comparison between Harry and Voldemort and explains:

Harry is constructed as the antithesis of Voldemort and is bound to him in numerous ways: the lightning-bolt scar on his forehead is the most obvious, as are Harry’s ability to speak Parseltongue and his wand, which is an exact counterpart of Voldemort’s. Like Frodo Baggins, Harry is the reluctant hero who must act as the instrument of absolute good, even at the risk of his own life, to defeat the instrument of absolute evil. (p. 339)

Though Chevelier (2005) mentions absolutes, he fails to address the potential that Harry might not be absolutely good and Voldemort might not be absolutely evil.

Chevelier, N. (2005). The liberty tree and the Whomping Willow: Political justice, magical science,

and Harry Potter.  The Lion and the Unicorn ,  29 (3), 397-415. doi:10.1353/uni.2005.0041

How to Write Block Quotes in MLA: Proper Formatting and Usage

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

Understanding Block Quotes in MLA Writing Style

Introducing block ‌quotes: definition and importance in mla formatting, proper ​format for ⁣block​ quotes in mla style guide, including block quotes in your mla paper: placement and indentation rules, using block quotes sparingly: when and why to include them, proper punctuation ‌and ​citation in mla block‍ quotes, blending block quotes seamlessly: tips for incorporating them in ⁢your⁣ writing, mastering‍ block ‌quotes: a step-by-step guide for mla⁢ formatting, frequently ‍asked ⁢questions, to conclude.

Block quotes are‌ an ​essential​ element of​ MLA writing​ style. ⁢When incorporating long quotations into ‌your essay, it‍ is important to understand how to format them ‌correctly to maintain⁤ consistency and readability throughout your paper. MLA (Modern Language Association) style provides guidelines‌ for‍ properly using block ‌quotes to give credit to the original author while adding ​credibility to your own⁤ arguments.

To correctly format a block quote ‌in MLA style, follow these key elements: – Indentation: Start the quote ⁤on a new line and⁢ indent the entire block approximately half an inch from‌ the left margin.‍ This‌ visually sets it apart⁣ from⁢ the‍ surrounding text and indicates to the reader ‌that it is ‌a distinct quotation. – No quotation marks:⁤ Unlike short quotes that ⁣are‌ enclosed within double ⁤quotation marks, block quotes do not‌ require any additional punctuation.⁣ The indentation serves ‌as an indicator ⁢that it ⁣is‌ a‍ quotation, so there ‍is no need for quotation‌ marks.

Furthermore,​ keep in ⁤mind that the use of block quotes is ​typically ⁤reserved for longer‍ passages of text, usually⁤ consisting of four ⁣or more lines. These ‍quotes should be used sparingly and only when⁣ necessary to ⁣support your analysis or provide critical context to ⁣your argument. By incorporating block ‌quotes effectively,⁣ you can​ demonstrate‍ your understanding of​ MLA writing style⁢ and ⁢enhance the overall coherence and⁢ strength⁤ of your academic⁢ writing.

Block quotes ‍are ‍an essential⁤ element of MLA formatting that serve‌ to​ highlight and emphasize significant passages within ‍an academic paper or article. By using block quotes, writers ‌can ‌draw attention to key points made ​by‍ other ⁣authors and provide supporting evidence for their own arguments. Placing a block quote allows readers​ to ⁣easily ‌distinguish​ it from the surrounding text, making it clear that the words being ⁢quoted belong to ⁣someone else.

When including a block quote‍ in your writing, ‌follow these guidelines to maintain proper MLA formatting.⁢ First, ensure that the quote is longer than ⁢four lines of text. To clearly⁤ separate the block ‍quote from the rest of your content, indent the entire passage from ‍both the left and right margins of the page. This indentation ⁣helps signal to readers that they are consuming a distinct section of​ quoted material. Additionally, there is⁢ no need to use quotation marks for block ⁣quotes, as the ⁢indentation and formatting already indicate ‍that⁤ the content has been​ borrowed. Remember, when incorporating a‍ block quote, it is ‍important to provide accurate ‌attribution to the⁤ original author​ by including ​the necessary‍ citation information, ‍such as the author’s name, page number, and publication title.

Incorporating​ block quotes⁤ can greatly contribute to the overall readability and credibility of your⁢ academic work. By‍ utilizing this formatting ​feature, you show that you have engaged ‌with and thoroughly researched⁤ the topic, while ⁢also ​presenting alternate⁢ viewpoints to ‍support your ​own argument. ⁢So, when encountering⁣ a thought-provoking quote that⁢ you believe strengthens​ your writing, be sure to consider integrating it as a ‌block quote in your MLA-formatted work.

Block‍ quotes are a⁢ crucial element in academic ​writing as they allow us ‍to highlight and analyze significant ⁣passages from⁢ external sources. When‌ using block quotes in an MLA-style paper, it is ⁣important to ‍follow the proper‍ formatting ⁤guidelines to ensure‌ clarity and consistency. Here are some key points to keep in mind‍ when incorporating block quotes into your work:

– Indentation: ‌Begin the block​ quote⁣ on a new line and indent it 0.5 inches from⁤ the⁣ left margin. This‍ helps to visually distinguish the ‍quote from‍ the rest of your⁢ text, ⁤making ⁤it ⁣easier for readers to identify. -​ Quotation Marks:⁤ Unlike‌ regular quotations, block quotes should not be​ enclosed in​ quotation marks. Instead,‍ the entire quote should be presented as a separate block of text, indented as‍ mentioned⁤ above. – ‍Punctuation: Any punctuation that appears⁤ in the ‌original​ quote should be ‌preserved exactly as it is. However, if you need ⁢to add or alter ‌punctuation⁢ for clarity or ⁣grammatical ⁣correctness, enclose the additional ⁣punctuation within ‍square brackets to indicate that ‌it is not part of the original text.

Additionally, remember to provide ​the⁤ appropriate citation for the source of‍ the block ​quote, ⁣including ⁤the‍ author’s name, the title of ⁣the work, and ​the page number (if available).⁢ By following these guidelines, you can effectively integrate ‌block⁣ quotes into ‍your MLA-style paper, providing valuable insights and evidence⁢ to support your arguments.

Block quotes ‍are a valuable tool when ‌it comes to citing sources in your MLA‌ paper. Not ⁤only do they ⁣provide​ credibility and support‌ for ⁤your ‌arguments, but they also allow you to showcase the words of experts in ⁤the field. ​So, where exactly should you place these block⁤ quotes‌ in your paper?⁣ The ⁤placement and ⁢indentation rules are simple yet crucial‌ to ⁤follow to maintain the‌ integrity ​and flow of your writing.

1. Placement: – ⁢Always introduce block quotes with a ⁢signal phrase or sentence‍ that indicates ‌the​ source and author. ‌ – Insert the ⁤block quote in the ⁤body of ​your paper,⁣ maintaining double spacing between paragraphs. ⁤ ⁣ – Avoid starting a new ‌paragraph immediately after a block ​quote unless necessary for clarity. ⁢- If ⁢you have more ⁣than one block quote in a paragraph, ensure they are separated by at least one line of text.

2. Indentation: ‍ ⁤- Indent the entire block quote by 1 inch (or 2.54⁢ cm)​ from the left⁢ margin. – Do ‍not use ​quotation marks⁢ around block quotes. – Maintain the ​original formatting of the ​block quote, including ⁣line breaks⁢ and punctuation, unless clearly erroneous.

Following ‌these‍ placement ‍and indentation rules will ensure your block quotes​ seamlessly ‌blend into your MLA paper, providing the necessary evidence and ‌enhancing the credibility of your arguments. By properly⁣ attributing the words of others, you showcase your⁤ respect for scholarly work, creating a ‍more engaging and ⁣comprehensive academic piece.

In the world of academic ‍writing, proper punctuation and accurate citation are paramount when using MLA block quotes. To ensure that your quotes are seamlessly integrated into ‌your work, it is essential to follow these ⁣guidelines and‍ pay attention⁤ to every detail.⁣ Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Punctuation: When incorporating a block quote, it is crucial to​ preserve the original formatting, including the punctuation.⁤ However, there are instances where you might need to⁢ make slight adjustments for ⁢clarity or coherence. Remember the following:

– **Quotation marks**: MLA block quotes do not require the use ⁣of quotation ⁣marks. Instead, start the ‍quote on a⁢ new⁤ line, indented ⁢half an ⁤inch from‍ the left margin, and maintain​ double spacing throughout. – **Ellipses**: Sometimes, you may need to omit specific parts⁣ of⁣ the text you are quoting. In such cases, indicate the omission with an ‌ellipsis – three spaced periods with a space before and after each dot. ​ – **Brackets**: If you need to⁤ include additional information within a quote to provide ‍context or⁤ enhance understanding, enclose ​it in ⁢square brackets. ⁢This allows you to clarify any ambiguities without​ altering the original text.

2. ‌Citation: Proper citation is ⁢essential to acknowledge the sources‍ you use and avoid plagiarism. When handling MLA⁣ block quotes, these ‌citation rules apply:

– **Author’s name**: Introduce‌ the author’s full name or last name,⁣ followed by a comma, before ⁤the quoted text. This ⁤attribution helps to credit the original writer. – **Page numbers**: ⁤Include the page number(s) of the source from⁤ which you ⁤extracted the quote. Insert the page number(s) in parentheses after the ⁣closing ‍punctuation of the block quote. If applicable, clarify which edition or version of the work you ⁣are citing. ⁣ ‌ -‍ **Works cited**: As with⁣ any other source used ⁤in your paper, MLA block quotes should be ⁤acknowledged⁤ in the ‌works ​cited section. Ensure that the complete reference for the quoted ​text is ⁤included, adhering to MLA format guidelines.

By​ following these guidelines, you can elevate the quality of your work,⁣ maintain ‌proper attribution,​ and ensure⁢ that your block quotes accurately support your arguments. Embrace the power⁢ of correct punctuation and citation to boost the credibility and clarity‌ of your writing.

Writing is an⁤ art, ‌and incorporating block quotes seamlessly within your writing can elevate your work to new heights. These ⁣powerful and impactful excerpts ⁤from external sources can provide credibility ​and support to ‍your arguments,⁢ enhancing the overall⁤ quality of⁢ your piece. To ensure they seamlessly blend​ into your work, here ​are some valuable tips:

1. Choose the right moment for⁢ impact: Block quotes ⁢are most effective when used strategically. Select moments where the quoted text​ adds significant value to your​ own words. This could ⁤be when introducing⁣ an expert⁣ opinion, showcasing an opposing⁤ viewpoint, or adding strength to ⁣a key⁢ argument.

2. Introduce and contextualize: Setting the‌ stage for​ a block quote ‍is essential to maintain flow in your writing.⁣ Provide ​brief context before the quote⁤ to help readers⁤ understand its relevance and purpose. Remember ⁢to use HTML⁤ tags⁢ to indicate the beginning and end of the block quote, ensuring it stands out visually.

3. Keep it concise‌ and relevant: While block​ quotes hold substantial importance, remember that your own ‍voice should always take center stage. Ensure the quoted text is ‍concise and relates directly to your main topic or argument. Focus on⁢ extracting‌ the most valuable and impactful sentences, highlighting the essence ​of the original source.

Integrating⁣ block quotes tastefully‍ in⁣ your ‌writing can‌ make a⁣ world ⁤of ⁢difference, ‍enriching both the content and reader‌ experience. Remember, balance is key. Strive for a seamless combination of your voice and⁢ relevant external sources, allowing your​ words and ideas⁢ to​ shine​ through. With these tips, you’ll master the art of incorporating block‍ quotes, creating⁣ compelling and ⁢persuasive ⁣written works.

Block ⁤quotes are an essential tool in academic writing, allowing you ​to⁤ highlight‍ and analyze significant passages from⁤ external sources. Mastering MLA formatting guidelines for block quotes ensures that your​ citations are accurate and well-structured. To help you through this process, we’ve put together⁣ a step-by-step guide that will ‌make incorporating block quotes a breeze.

1. Start by identifying the relevant quote and determining⁢ its significance in supporting your argument. Keep in mind that block quotes should be used sparingly ‌and only when‌ the passage is particularly insightful or influential.

2. ⁢To format the‍ block quote, enclose ‍it within

tags ⁤in your HTML document. This‍ visually distinguishes it from the rest of your⁢ text, making it easier ⁢for⁤ readers to‍ identify​ the quoted material. Remember​ to ‌also⁤ indent the entire quote one inch or ⁤2.54 cm from the left margin.

3. Within ⁢the

tags, ⁢include the entire quote exactly as it appears ⁣in the original source, preserving any grammar or spelling mistakes.‌ However, omit⁢ any unnecessary words or lines using an‌ ellipsis ‍(…), ensuring that the meaning of the quote remains intact.

4. After ⁢the quote, provide an in-text citation‌ to acknowledge the source. In MLA⁤ format, this typically includes‍ the author’s last name and page number within‍ parentheses. For example, (Smith 123).

5. To seamlessly⁣ integrate the block quote into your‌ writing, introduce it with a signal phrase that provides context‌ and smoothly transitions into the quoted material. This phrase should be followed by a colon and written in plain text, not within the

Remember⁣ to use block quotes judiciously, as excessive or irrelevant⁤ quotations can disrupt​ the flow of your writing.⁤ By following ⁤these‌ steps, you’ll become a master of block quotes in‌ MLA formatting,⁢ effectively incorporating⁤ external sources into‍ your academic⁣ work while adhering to citation guidelines.

Q:⁢ What is a ​block quote in MLA format? A: A block quote in MLA format is a long quotation‍ that is indented from the⁤ rest‌ of the text ‍and presented in a separate‌ block of text. ⁤It is ⁤used to highlight ⁣important passages or direct quotes that​ are longer than four lines of prose​ or‍ three ⁤lines of verse.

Q: How should a⁤ block quote be formatted ⁢in‌ MLA? A: To⁤ properly ​format a‍ block quote ‍in MLA, you should ‍indent the​ entire quote by adding one inch or ten spaces from ​the left margin. It is important to maintain double spacing throughout⁢ the​ block quote, without adding any additional⁢ indentation ⁢to the first‌ line.

Q: When should you use a ‌block quote in ‍academic⁤ writing? A:​ Block quotes are typically ‌used‍ when a ⁢direct quotation is⁣ lengthy ⁣or contains important information that needs to be emphasized. It is common⁤ to use block quotes when citing sources, ⁤analyzing complex passages, or ​discussing specific details that require closer examination.

Q: Are there any⁤ specific rules ⁣for using block quotes ⁢in MLA? A:‍ Yes, there are a few important rules to follow‌ when using block quotes⁢ in MLA.​ Firstly, avoid⁢ quotation marks ⁤as⁢ the⁤ indentation signals that it is a quote. Additionally, if you want ⁣to omit any part of the original ​quote, use ellipsis (…) to indicate ​the omission. Finally, always‍ provide ​proper in-text citations ​with the author’s last name and page‌ number ⁤after the block quote.

Q: Can I‌ alter the formatting of a block⁤ quote? A: Generally, the formatting of a ⁣block⁤ quote should ⁣remain unchanged to ⁢reflect the original text. However, in certain cases, you may need to make minor ⁤alterations to the font size or style if it is ⁣necessary for your analysis​ or if the original quote contains special​ formatting. Make sure to use square ​brackets to indicate ‌any modifications made ⁢within the quote.

Q: How often should I use block ⁤quotes in ​my‌ essay ⁣or research ⁣paper? A:​ Block quotes should be used sparingly and only when necessary. It​ is generally‍ recommended to ⁢primarily ⁣rely ‍on paraphrasing or shorter ⁣quotes within​ the main body of your text. Block quotes are typically ⁣reserved for instances where ​it is ⁣crucial to ‌preserve the ⁢original wording, convey a specific tone, or⁣ analyze ⁤a⁣ longer passage in depth.

Q: Is it possible to cite⁣ multiple sources within​ a block quote? A: Yes, it is possible to cite multiple‍ sources ‍within a block quote in MLA. If you include ⁣multiple sources, make sure⁤ to list them in alphabetical order ‌separated by ​semicolons ⁢inside the parentheses.⁣ Additionally,‍ provide the⁣ relevant page numbers for each source⁣ to ensure accurate citation.

Q: Can ‍I use block quotes in other writing styles, such as APA or⁢ Chicago? A: Block quotes‍ are not exclusive ‌to⁤ MLA‍ format; ⁢they can also be used​ in other writing styles like APA or⁤ Chicago. However,‌ the specific guidelines for block quotes may differ slightly between different styles. It is essential to consult the appropriate style guide and follow the recommended ‌formatting guidelines ‌for each writing ​style you are‌ using.

In conclusion, mastering the ⁢proper formatting⁤ and⁢ usage of block quotes in​ MLA can ⁢greatly enhance your academic writing skills.

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Citations: Block Quotations

According to the APA manual, quotations that are 40 words or more are considered block quotations and are formatted differently than regular quotations.

The following is a list of the unique formatting that is needed for block quotations:

• Block quotations start on their own line.
• The entire block quotation is indented 0.5 inches, the same as the indentation for a new paragraph, and is double spaced.
• Block quotations are not surrounded by any quotation marks.
• The punctuation at the end of the block quotation goes before the citation.
• The ending citation is included on the last line of the block quotation.
• The text after the block quotation begins on its own line, with no indentation. You should not end a paragraph with a block quotation because any quotation you use as evidence in your writing should be followed by analysis in your own words as part of the same paragraph.

Note that block quotations should be used sparingly. Block quotations tend to take over the voice of the paper, often overshadowing the voice of the author with that source’s voice. Instead, if at all possible, try to quote smaller portions of the piece of text and incorporate these into your own voice. This practice will not only allow you to establish your voice as the author but also show the way you are engaging with the information, not just reporting it.

Block Quotation Examples

Today, digital cameras have practically taken over photography. As Johnson (2010) explained,

Digital cameras now make up 90% of all camera sales at the leading electronic stores. This increase in sales can be partially attributed to the widespread use of email and social networking, which has encouraged the sharing of digital photos. (p. 23)

Johnson further noted that, even more than with the shift to digital cameras, the increasing use of phones and iPods that have built-in cameras has replaced the use of film cameras.

Computer users often disagree about which operating system is best: Mac or PC. Oyler (2010) stated that one operating system is not better than the other, but that one may be better suited for different purposes than the other. She explained by saying that

Macs are often the best option for users who wish to work with video or picture manipulation. Macs are also very user friendly, which may benefit consumers who are new to computers. PCs, however, run Microsoft Office Suite the best. Therefore, students might find that a PC is their best option because it can run Microsoft Word and PowerPoint the smoothest. (Oyler, 2010, p. 48)

Conversely, Jones (2010) disagreed with the statement that Macs work with graphics such as video and pictures better than PCs, stating that PCs can be modified to work as well as Macs.

Related Resource

Knowledge Check: Block Quotations

Knowledge Check

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How to Block Quote | A Guide with Examples

Published by Olive Robin at October 17th, 2023 , Revised On October 17, 2023

In any form of written communication, be it academic writing, journalism, or even casual blogging, there comes a time when we need to reference another’s words to support, explain, or emphasise our points. This is where block quotes come into play. Block quotes and paraphrasing in sources are both essential techniques when relying on external materials.

A block quote is a direct, word-for-word replication of a section from another source, usually set apart from the main text. It is often indented, italicised, or presented in a different font or size to clearly distinguish it from the original writing.

Beyond just quoting, block quotes serve as a visual marker, signalling readers that the words they are reading aren’t the author’s original thoughts but rather an extraction from another source. Properly integrating sources is a crucial skill, and using block quotes is one of the ways to achieve it.

So, why is it important to use block quotes?

Preserving Original Meaning

By quoting directly, we ensure that the original author’s meaning is preserved, reducing the risk of misinterpretation.

Lending Credibility

When making a claim or stating a fact, presenting a direct quote from a reputable source lends more credibility to your statements.

Highlighting Significant Information

Sometimes, the original way something was said is so impactful that paraphrasing doesn’t do it justice. In these instances, a block quote is a perfect choice.

What is a Block Quote?

A block quote, often referred to as a “long quotation” or “extract,” is a lengthy quotation that is separated from the main body of the text, typically by being indented, set in a smaller font size, or both. The exact length that qualifies a quote to be block-quoted varies between citation styles, but it usually starts from around 40 words or more. This distinguishes it from regular quotations, which are integrated into the text and enclosed in quotation marks.

Unlike regular quotations, block quotes typically do not have quotation marks at the beginning or end (though there are exceptions based on specific formatting styles). The primary purpose is to visually separate it, signalling the reader that they are about to delve into a direct excerpt from another source.

When and why to Use Block Quotes

A few situations where you should use block quotes are discussed below. 

Length of the Quote

As previously mentioned, once a quote surpasses a certain length (often around 40 words, but this may vary), it’s recommended to format it as a block quote.

Preservation of Originality 

There are times when the original phrasing of a statement carries weight, emotion, or clarity that cannot be matched by paraphrasing. In such cases, a block quote retains the original’s power.

Focus on the Source

Using a block quote can draw the reader’s attention to the significance of the cited information. It emphasises the importance of the content being quoted.

Avoiding Plagiarism

Especially in academic and research writing, presenting someone else’s ideas as your own is a serious offence. Block quotes, combined with proper citation, ensure that credit is appropriately given.

Clarifying or Supporting Arguments

When discussing complex topics, a direct quote from an expert or primary source can clarify or further support your argument.

Different Styles and Their Guidelines

Each academic and professional field often adheres to a particular citation style, which dictates how sources are cited and how block quotes are presented. Source evaluation is another integral part of this process, ensuring the credibility and reliability of the referenced materials. Here, we will explore three popular styles: APA, MLA, and Chicago.

The American Psychological Association (APA) format is a widely used style in the social sciences. It offers guidelines on how to structure papers, cite sources, and format text—including block quotes.

Using APA correctly adds credibility to a piece of writing and ensures the reader can trace back to the original sources of information.

How to Format Block Quotes in APA

• Begin the block quote on a new line.
• Indent the entire block quote ½ inch (or five to seven spaces) from the left margin.
• Do not use quotation marks around the block quote.
• Use double-spacing throughout, just as you would with the rest of the paper.
• The citation should come after the punctuation at the end of the block quote.

Example of a Block Quote in APA

Smith (2020) highlights the impact of global warming: Climate change has accelerated at a pace previously unforeseen by scientists. The repercussions of this rapid environmental shift are evidenced by the increasing frequency of natural disasters, the migration of species, and the alteration of global weather patterns. (p. 45)

The Modern Language Association (MLA) format is primarily used in the humanities, especially in writings on literature and language.

It aids in providing a uniform structure to papers and essays, making them more accessible and credible to readers.

How to Format Block Quotes in MLA

• Begin the block quote on a new line without quotation marks.
• Indent the entire block quote one inch (or ten spaces) from the left margin.
• Maintain double-spacing.
• Place the citation, without a period, after the last sentence of the block quote. The regular text can then resume after this citation.

Example of a Block Quote in MLA

In her novel, Morrison paints a poignant picture of her characters’ struggles: Life was no longer something to endure but to live. Every aspect of the environment, from the vast skies to the intricate patterns on a butterfly’s wings, became a source of fascination and joy. (287)

Chicago Style

Chicago Manual of Style, or simply Chicago style, is widely used in history, business, and fine arts.

It offers comprehensive guidelines for publishing, making it invaluable for authors, researchers, and editors.

How to Format Block Quotes in Chicago Style

• Start the block quote on a new line, indented 0.5 inches from the left margin.
• Single-space the block quote, but leave a line space before and after.
• No quotation marks are used.
• Citations can be placed either as footnotes or endnotes, depending on the preference or instruction for the paper.

Example of a Block Quote in Chicago Style

As Davidson postulates in his study: The Renaissance period, while recognised for its artistic and intellectual achievements, also witnessed significant advancements in scientific reasoning. This dual evolution of art and science made it one of the most dynamic periods in human history.^1 ^1 Davidson, Richard. The Dual Face of the Renaissance. Chicago University Press, 2019, p. 132.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid in Getting Block Quotes

Using block quotes can elevate your writing, offering solid evidence for your claims and enhancing the depth of your content. However, mistakes in their usage can detract from the content, causing confusion or even casting doubts on the credibility of your work. One aspect of information literacy is knowing when and how to use block quotes effectively. Let’s delve into some common pitfalls and how to sidestep them.

Not Introducing or Contextualising the Block Quote

• Mistake: Dropping a block quote into your writing without any introduction can be jarring for readers. It can leave them puzzled about the quote’s relevance or significance.
• Solution: Always introduce a block quote. This could be as simple as stating the author’s name and credentials or offering a summary of the quote’s significance. Contextualising helps the reader understand why the quote is there and how it supports your argument or narrative. 

Wrong: Climate change is a significant concern. Climate change has accelerated at a pace… Right: According to environmental scientist Dr Jane Smith, Climate change has accelerated at a pace…

Quoting too Much or too Little

• Mistake: Using excessively long block quotes can lose the reader’s interest or make it seem like you’re filling space. On the other hand, quoting too little might strip the context of the full meaning from the source.
• Solution: Be judicious in selecting what to quote. Ensure the quote is long enough to capture the essence of the point but concise enough to keep the reader’s interest.

Wrong: Quoting an entire page when only a few lines are relevant. Right: Select key sentences or paragraphs that directly relate to your point.

Failing To Cite The Source Correctly

• Mistake: Incorrect citations or, worse, omitting them altogether can lead to accusations of plagiarism. This can undermine your credibility and even lead to academic or professional penalties.
• Solution: Always ensure you cite the source of your block quote as prescribed by the style guide you’re following. If unsure, double-check the rules or use citation tools available online.

Wrong: Climate change has accelerated at a pace… Right : Climate change has accelerated at a pace… (Smith, 2020, p. 45)

Tips For Effectively Using Block Quotes

Block quotes are invaluable tools in writing, but like any tool, they need to be wielded skillfully. Let’s explore some strategies to use block quotes effectively, ensuring that they augment rather than disrupt your narrative flow.

Choosing Significant and Relevant Passages

The essence of a block quote is its ability to emphasise a particular point. Including irrelevant or weak passages can diminish the power of your argument or narrative.

Tip: Before opting for a block quote, ask yourself:

• Does this passage strongly support my point?
• Is there a unique phrasing or perspective that is essential for readers to understand?

Example: Rather than quoting a generic statement like, “Pollution is bad for the environment,” opt for a more impactful passage, such as, “Unchecked pollution can lead to irreversible ecosystem damage, with consequences that reverberate for centuries.”

Integrating Block Quotes Smoothly into your Own Text

A block quote should not feel “dropped in” but should instead be a seamless part of your writing.

Tip: Use transitional phrases or introductions that lead the reader into the quote. This provides context and highlights the relevance of the quoted passage.

Example: Instead of abruptly placing a block quote, use an introduction like, “As renowned environmentalist Dr Jane Smith explains:” followed by the block quote.

Paraphrasing Vs. Quoting: When to Choose Which

While block quotes can be powerful, they aren’t always the best choice. Sometimes, paraphrasing can convey the same information more succinctly.

Tip: Opt for a block quote when:

• The original phrasing is impactful and carries weight.
• The author’s credentials lend authority to the statement.
• The specific wording is central to your argument or analysis.

Paraphrase when:

• The idea is essential, but the exact wording isn’t.
• You want to condense a lengthy passage without losing its core meaning.
• The source’s language is overly technical or dense, and a simplified version would be more accessible to your audience .

Example: Original: “The phenomenon of bioluminescence, observed predominantly in marine vertebrates and invertebrates, arises from chemical reactions that emit light.” Block Quote (if discussing the science behind the phenomenon): Use as is. Paraphrase (for a general audience): “Bioluminescence, mostly seen in sea animals, is a natural light produced by chemical reactions.”

Block Quote Examples

Block quotes can manifest differently depending on the medium in which they are used. The following examples showcase how block quotes can be effectively implemented in various types of writing.

Example of a Block Quotes for an Essay

Topic: The Influence of Shakespeare on Modern Literature

The influence of William Shakespeare on modern literature is indisputable. As Harold Bloom, a renowned critic, asserts in his book The Invention of the Human:

Shakespeare’s characters remain unmatched in all of western literature, displaying a human depth that has yet to be surpassed. Their intricate personalities and complex motivations not only reflect the essence of humanity but also shape our understanding of the human psyche.

Building upon Bloom’s insight, it’s evident that characters like Hamlet and Lady Macbeth have become archetypes in literature, continually being referenced and reinterpreted in modern works.

Example of a Block Quote in a Research Paper

Topic: The Impact of Deforestation on Climate Change

One of the leading causes of climate change is the rampant deforestation occurring worldwide. A study published in the Journal of Climate Studies in 2021 elaborates on this point:

Deforestation has been found to contribute significantly to global warming. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, a primary greenhouse gas, thus reducing its levels in the atmosphere. Large-scale logging and clearing of forests, especially in tropical regions, release vast amounts of stored carbon, exacerbating the greenhouse effect and speeding up climate change.

Given this data, it’s crucial for policymakers to prioritise reforestation and sustainable logging practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

Example of a Block Quote in a Blog Post

Topic: The Benefits of Meditation

Meditation has become a popular practice, boasting a myriad of health benefits. I recently stumbled upon a piece by Dr Jane Goodall in Mindfulness Today, where she beautifully describes her personal experience with meditation:

Every morning, as the sun rises, I take a moment to sit in stillness and silence. This daily ritual has transformed my life. It’s like a reset button, offering clarity, grounding, and a deep connection to the world around me. It’s more than just relaxation; it’s a profound journey inward.

I couldn’t have put it better. Meditation, as Dr. Goodall explains, is more than a mere practice—it’s a transformative experience that connects us to our innermost selves.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to make block quotes in word.

• Highlight the desired text.
• Right-click and select ‘Paragraph.’
• Under ‘Indentation,’ choose ‘Left’ and set it to 0.5 inches.
• Ensure line spacing is ‘Double’ (for many academic formats).
• Click ‘OK’ to apply the changes.

How to add block quote in Google Docs?

• Highlight the text you want to block quote.
• Click on ‘Format’ in the top menu.
• Hover over ‘Paragraph styles,’ then ‘Normal Text.’
• Click on ‘Apply ‘Block quote.”
• Adjust indentation or font if necessary.

What is blockquote in HTML for quotations?

In HTML, the <blockquote> element represents a block-level quotation from another source. It’s typically displayed as an indented block of text to differentiate it from surrounding content. To cite the quotation’s source, you can use the cite attribute. For inline quotations, HTML provides the <q> element instead. Always pair with proper attribution.

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In academia, research, journalism, and writing, the skill of quoting sources is fundamental. Accurate and proper quoting adds credibility to your work and demonstrates respect for the original authors and their ideas.

From academic research to personal blogs, the bedrock of trust and credibility is often established by one simple act: source citing. Whether we are constructing a thesis for a graduate program or debunking a myth on a personal blog, providing the origins of our information bolsters our arguments and pays homage to the original creators of that knowledge.

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MLA Block Quotes Guide with Formats and Examples

Are you supposed to place a block quote in your paper but need to know how to go about it? Then this guide is for you.

One of the biggest challenges for most students when blocking quotes in MLA is properly putting them in the essay. A block text in MLA formatting is any text that is four words or more directly quoted from the source. The quotation is a way of showing the reader that the text is different from the main writing in your paper. When writing a block quote, you must use proper citations and formatting according to the MLA style.

The concept of block quotes can seem challenging yet it is widely used in academic and sometimes, professional writing. The good thing is that you can master the technique and properly apply what you have learned. This guide will walk you through making a block quote and how you can properly cite and format it in your paper. Keep reading to learn more.

What is MLA format?

MLA format is a style of academic writing developed by the Modern Language Association with guidelines on how to format manuscripts and cite research papers. MLA provides writers in the arts and humanities fields with a system for formatting and referencing their source through parenthetical citations within the content and in the Works Cited pages.

Like other academic writing styles, MLA style includes specific guidelines on how to write the paper's heading , in-text citation, quotations, work cited pages, sizes, and spacing of the paper, and abbreviations. This ensures that your paper is neat and that reader can easily follow and focus on the content of your argument. The purpose of MLA format is to do the following:

• Build your credibility as a writer by showing accountability to the source material
• Protect you against accusations of plagiarism

You should use MLA format for every assignment, including an essay outline, literature review, research proposal, and more. Ask your instructor if you are not using whether to use MLA formatting.

What is a Block Quote?

A block quote , also known as an extract or a long quotation , is a freestanding written text set off from the main text in a paper as a block of text. It is distinguished from the main text using indentation and a different font type, unlike the regular quotation type. Block quotations are normally used for long forms of texts. The citation style determines when and where to apply a block quote.

In MLA style formatting, a block quote is any quote with more than four lines. It is used when quoting the dialogue between characters in the play. When doing this, begin each part with the character's name and indent it 1/2 inch from the left margin. You should write all the names in capital letters and then follow them with a period.

The purpose of a block quote is to:

• Improve the paper's readability by separating lengthy quotations from the rest of the text.
• So that the quoted text is not mistaken for the original text.
• Show the quoted text that needs a special type of formatting

After writing the block quote, include a page number at the end after the ending period, the last name of the author, the date of publication, and the page number

Block Quote Format

A block quote follows the following format in MLA.

• The quote is always inserted on a new line. After writing the introduction or overview of the quite, start it in a new paragraph.
• Indent the block quote 0.5 inches or 0.5 cm from the left margin. This is done to differentiate the quote from the rest of the text and make it easy for the reader to easily identify it.
• Double-space the block quote. To achieve this, just highlight the entire quote, then click on the paragraph formatting button and select the line spacing of 2.0
• Then cite the whole quote.
• After successfully completing all the above, you can proceed with the rest of your text on a new line.

Steps to Make a Block Quote in MLA

The following steps will help you properly place a block quote in your paper.

1. Introduce the Quote

Since a block quote starts in its paragraph, you should give it a proper introduction. Write a sentence or two in your own words to tell the reader what it is all about and how it fits in your argument. This introductory sentence should then be followed with a comma. Use a colon if the quote is a continuation of your thoughts. However, if you are showing what the author said in the block quote, use a comma.

You can also introduce a block quote with a complete sentence ending with a period. Alternatively, an incomplete sentence transitions into another incomplete sentence before the start of the block text, thus forming a complete sentence.

2. Format the Quote

Like other text in your work, the block quote should be formatted. The block quotes should be doubled spaced on all lines. Do not add any extra space before or after the quote. The entire quote should also be indented 1/2 inch or 1.3 cm from the paper's left margin to look like a separate text. If you are using the word, you can indent the quote in the following ways:

Using the layout tab:

• Open the word document and select the text you are trying to highlight. Remember that this should be a long block of text begging on a new line.
• Go to the layout tab and on the indented part, select 0.5 inches on the left, or use the arrows to increase the sizes from 0- 0.5 inches.

Using the paragraph setting:

• Select the text you want to indent and right click then choose the paragraph.
• On the paragraph window, go to the indent and spacing tab and select 0.5 inches on the left indent.

The in-text citations should come after the closing punctuation mark. Maintain all the punctuation marks and capitalization as they appear in the original text. If you are quoting verse, keep the original line breaks. Place a period before the intent text (the parenthetical citation). Do not put ending punctuation after the parentheses. Let the MLA parenthetical citation guidelines direct you when writing the in-text citations.

3. Cite the Quote

Citations are a short, nice, and unique way of identifying an already published work. Citations involve certain elements, such as name, page number, etc., necessary for identifying and tracking publications. When writing a block quote, you must cite it properly. Add proper citations at the end of the block quotes after the final punctuation mark using the MLA style guide. According to the style guide, use the author's last name and the page number from where you took the quote. You should enclose the page number and the author's name in parentheses. Just write the page number as it is; there is no need to put any symbol to show it.

If any elements are missing from the source material, do not include them in your citation. These citations are important because they direct the reader to where you got the information. Every in-text citation you use should correspond with the source in the ‘Works Cited’ list. You should include the last line of your block quote.

Citing your block text is important because it helps in avoiding plagiarism. By citing your sources, you are telling the reader that you have borrowed the information from another author, thus giving them credit.

4. Comment on the Quote

When writing a block quote, you should not end it with a quote. You should use your own word to write a comment about your thoughts on the quote. This comment should help the reader connect the entire text with the block quote. Your comment might involve the following elements depending on the purpose of your paper:

• Analyzing the language used by the author you sourced the block quote from
• An explanation of the relationship between the bock quote and your paper’s argument
• Providing further information
• A summary of the point you are trying to make

Ensure you articulate your words well so the reader can understand.

5. Review the Quote

After writing a perfect completion text, you must review your quotes to determine that you have followed all the guidelines according to the MLA style. Check indentation and spacing, among others. Also, ensure it meets the proper standards for a block quote.

Related Reading: How to indent paragraphs in academic essays and papers.

Tips for Citing a Block Quote

When writing block quotes, there are certain tips that you need to follow the tips below:

• Don’t add any quotation marks that are not included in the source material
• If you are writing poetry in a block text that is too long to fit within the page's right margin, let it continue on the next line but make sure it is indented an additional ¼.
• The punctuation placed at the end of the block quote should go before the in-text citation.
• When citing long sections of poetry that are more than four lines, make sure you format it as close to the original as possible.
• If the source you are quoting does not have a page number, you should provide a paragraph number, for example (para. 2), or place other identifiers, such as a chapter.

Where and When to Use Block Quotes

A standard quotation is enclosed as part of your sentence within a paragraph and is enclosed in double quotation marks. However, if you are planning to quote more than three lines of verse or more than four lines of prose from your source material, you should put it in a block quote instead of the regular quotation.

Keep in mind that the standard rules for normal quotations will still apply with the exception that it meets the rules for block quotes as set out by the styling guide.

If your block text involves more than one paragraph, you should indent the first line of the new paragraph just as you would in the main text. If you are citing more than one paragraph, maintain the block quotation format, even if the paragraphs only have less than four lines. Please note that you should indent an extra 1/4 inch if you cite more than one paragraph to show the reader that you are starting a new paragraph.

To better visually distinguish a block text from regular text, ensure you leave an extra line above and below the block quotes.  

Always remember that block quotes should be used sparingly, especially since you must show that you can express your ideas without relying on others.

Block quotes are used when:

• The style is important in your writing context
• Analyzing the responses of participants in a social science-based research
• Conducting textual analysis

Final Remarks

A block quote is any text that is four or more lines. You must cite and format a block quote according to the style of writing used.

Block quotes are an important part of academic writing when used properly. They are used to show quotes text separate from the main text in a paper. They add depth to your essay or research paper. It also adds strength and helps readers understand your thesis.

Related Reading:

• How to make an MLA cover page
• Sample MLA essay on social network communications
• Sample MLA Essay
• How to title a Movie in an MLA paper or essay

Remember that even though they have many advantages in a paper, overusing them is not good. The exact number of block quotes to use will depend on the specific instruction from your instructor.

GradeCrest is a custom-writing website that can help you write your MLA papers. Whether it be in English, History, Literature, or any other field. If you need help with writing your MLA papers, simply fill out the order form and place an order.

How long is a Block Quote?

In MLA format, a block quote should be more than four lines of prose and three lines of verse. Only two block quotes can be used in an MLA paper, but this will depend on the length of your paper.

Can I Omit Some Words in a Block Quote?

Yes. You can omit some words in a block quote as a way to shorten it. Use ellipses to show the reader that you have omitted some words. The three dots should be proceeded and followed by space. Please keep in mind that there is no need to add brackets around the ellipses unless you are trying to provide more clarity. If you are writing poetry, use a single line of periods the same length as the poem to indicate that you have omitted some words. However, as you do this, make sure you do not change the original meaning of the author or eliminate some important texts.

Can I Use Quotes Within a Block Quote?

Yes. In MLA format, you cannot use quotation marks to enclose the block quote. However, if there is quoted text within the block quote, it should appear in double quotation marks.

How Do I Create a Block Quote in a Word Document?

You should start a block quote on a new line and indent it ½ an inch from the margin. It should be double-spaced and without any quotation marks. You can achieve this by:

• Clicking enters before the first word of the quote and at the end of the last word of the quote.
• Highlight the whole quote and click on the layout menu.
• Choose indent 0.5 on the indented menu.

Another way to do this is by using the ruler method. Moving the ruler 0.5 inches from the left margin. Then place the ruler an extra 0.25 inches on the subsequent paragraphs when writing a quote of more than one paragraph.

Gradecrest is a professional writing service that provides original model papers. We offer personalized services along with research materials for assistance purposes only. All the materials from our website should be used with proper references. See our Terms of Use Page for proper details.

How to Use Block Quotations in Writing

The Rules Differ, Depending on the Writing Style Guide

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• An Introduction to Punctuation
• Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia
• M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester
• B.A., English, State University of New York

A block quotation is a  direct quotation that is not placed inside quotation marks but instead is set off from the rest of the text by starting it on a new line and indenting it from the left margin . Block quotations may be called extracts, set-off quotations, long quotations, or display quotations. Block quotations are used in academic writing but are also common in journalistic and nonfiction writing. While block quotations are perfectly acceptable, it's important for writers to be selective about their use. In some cases, block quotations are unnecessarily long and include more content than is needed to make or support a point.

There is no single rule of thumb for formatting block quotations. Instead, each major style guide recommends slightly different ways of selecting, introducing, and setting off the quotations. Before formatting, it's important to check on the style used for a particular publication, website, or class.

Key Takeaways: Block Quotations

• A block quotation is a direct quotation that is indented from the left margin and begins on a new line.
• Block quotations are used when a quotation exceeds a specific length. Requirements for length vary, depending on the style guide being used.
• Block quotes can be effective tools for persuading readers or proving a point, but they should be used sparingly and edited appropriately.

Recommended Length of Block Quotations

Customarily, quotations that run longer than four or five lines are blocked, but style guides  often disagree on the minimum length for a block quotation. Some styles are more concerned with word counts, while others focus on the number of lines. While each "official" style guide has its own approach to block quotes, individual publishers may have unique in-house rules.

Some of the more common style guides require block quotations as follows:

• APA: Quotes longer than 40 words or four lines
• Chicago: Quotes longer than 100 words or eight lines
• MLA: Quotes of prose longer than four lines; quotes of poetry/verse longer than three lines
• AMA: Quotes longer than four lines

MLA Block Quotes

Researchers in English literature usually follow the style guidelines of the Modern Language Association (MLA). The "MLA Handbook for Writers of Research Papers" recommends the following for a quotation that will run more than four lines when it is included in the text:

• When appropriate in the context of the text, introduce the block quotation with a colon.
• Begin a new line indented one inch from the left margin; do not indent the first line more than the other lines in the block quotation.
• Type the quote double-spaced.
• Do not place quotation marks around the block of quoted text.

APA Block Quotes

APA stands for American Psychological Association, and APA style is used to format anything in the social sciences. When a quotation is longer than four lines line, APA requires that it be styled as follows:

• Set it off from your text by beginning a new line, indenting one inch from the left margin.
• Type it double-spaced, without adding quotation marks.
• If you quote only a single paragraph or part of one, do not indent the first line more than the rest.
• One inch is equivalent to 10 spaces.

Chicago Style Block Quotes

Often used for writing in the humanities, the Chicago (or Turabian ) Style Guide was created by the University of Chicago Press and is now in its 17th edition. It is sometimes referred to as the "Editors' Bible." Rules for block quotes in Chicago Style are as follows:

• Use block format for quotations longer than five lines or two paragraphs.
• Do not use quotation marks.
• Indent the entire quotation by half an inch.
• Precede and follow the block quote by a blank line.

American Medical Association Block Quotes

The AMA style guide was developed by the American Medical Association and is used almost exclusively for medical research papers. Rules for block quotes in the AMA style are as follows:

• Use block formats for quotations that are longer than four lines of text.
• Use reduced type.
• Use paragraph indents only if the material cited is known to begin a paragraph.
• If the block quote contains a secondary quote, use double quotation marks around the contained quotation.
• What Is an Indentation?
• Definition and Examples of Direct Quotations
• Margin (Composition Format) Definition
• Formatting Papers in Chicago Style
• A Guide to Using Quotations in Essays
• Guidelines for Using Quotation Marks Correctly
• What Is a Senior Thesis?
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How to Format a Block Quote

Last Updated: December 28, 2023 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Christopher Taylor, PhD . 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 9 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 585,784 times.

Formatting a block quote may seem daunting, but it’s actually quite easy. How you format the block quote depends on which style you are using: Modern Language Association (MLA), American Psychology Association (APA), or Chicago Manual of Style (Chicago). All 3 styles format block quotes in similar ways, although there are slight differences between each one.

Block Quote Examples

Forming a Block Quote in MLA

• For example, if you are quoting the first stanza from Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken,” you should use a block quote, because it is longer than 3 lines.
• Another example might be if you are quoting a paragraph from Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. If the paragraph is more than 4 lines, use a block quote.

• "Roland Barthes sought to understand the difference between cinema and photography:"
• "In his novel White Jacket , Herman Melville argues,"

My interest in photography took a more cultural turn. I decided I liked photography in opposition to the Cinema, from which I nonetheless failed to separate it. This question grew insistent. I was overcome by an "ontological" desire: I wanted to learn at all costs what photography was "in itself."

• If you are quoting more than one paragraph, indent the first line of each paragraph another 1 ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm). [4] X Research source

• See fox jump; over the hill. Unlike the dipping sun; setting slowly still. (Pool 2)

• "I was overcome by an "ontological" desire: I wanted to learn at all costs what photography was "in itself." (Barthes 3)"

Making a Block Quote in APA

• On a word processor like Microsoft Word, you can highlight the quote and click “Word Count” under “Review” or “Proofing.” This will tell you how many words are in the quote.
• For example, if you are quoting a long paragraph from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders , you should use a block quote.

• In Morgan’s 2013 study, he stated,
• Morgan (2013) found that:
• Some studies disagreed with these findings:

• If you are citing multiple paragraphs, indent the first line of the quotation by an additional 1 ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm).

The scent of lavender reduced stress by 20%. Individuals who were exposed had lower heart rates and blood pressure compared to the control group. Lavender also decreased the amount of time it took for subjects to fall asleep in clinical studies. (p. 112)

The scent of lavender reduced stress by 20%. Individuals who were exposed had lower heart rates and blood pressure compared to the control group. Lavender also decreased the amount of time it took for subjects to fall asleep in clinical studies. (Jones, 1998, p. 112)

Forming a Block Quote in Chicago Style

• For example, if you are quoting a 7 line paragraph from Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre , you should use a block quote.

• In many ways, the text creates a distinction between the seen and unseen:
• In response, Jones said,

• If you are citing multiple paragraphs, indent the first line of the quotation by an additional ¼ inch (0.64 cm). Indent the first line of each successive paragraph the same way.

• Peterson, Mary. Effects of Smoking on the Body. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1984.
• (Peterson, 118)

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• ↑ https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/mla_style/mla_formatting_and_style_guide/mla_formatting_quotations.html
• ↑ https://public.wsu.edu/~campbelld/cited.htm
• ↑ https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/747/03/
• ↑ https://butlercc.libguides.com/c.php?g=220263&p=1458165
• ↑ https://apastyle.apa.org/style-grammar-guidelines/citations/quotations
• ↑ https://writingcenter.uagc.edu/block-quotations
• ↑ https://www.una.edu/writingcenter/docs/Writing-Resources/Introduction%20to%20Chicago-Turabian%20Style.pdf
• ↑ https://www.sjsu.edu/writingcenter/docs/handouts/Chicago%20Style.pdf

About This Article

To format a block quote in MLA, start by introducing the quote with a short sentence that ends with a colon or comma. Then, insert the quote on a new line without quotation marks. After you insert the quote, indent the entire block of text so it's 1/2 an inch from the left margin. The block quote should also be double-spaced like the rest of your paper. At the end of the quote, add the author's last name and the page number in parentheses. To learn how to format a block quote in APA and Chicago Style, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Block Quote Example

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Running head: SKIN CANVAS AND TATTOOS AS TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY ART                                                                                                                                                                                                            8  

               Now known as Dr. Lakra, the young artist acquired the name very early in his career due to the antique doctor’s bag he would carry with him which held his machines for tattooing. He chose the name “Lakra,” which is Spanish for scar of blemish, and is also slang for delinquent (Malbert, 2015, p. 230). Best known for taking antique and retro images from magazines and postcards, and turning the seemingly innocent and “pure” bodies into works of art. His works are very similar and often related and compared to ready-mades in the sense that Dr. Lakra does not go out and create the human canvases he works on, but rather these figures already formed and places his personal touch and markings on them.

An avid collector of diverse objects,  Lakra  views the search for materials and images as an essential aspect of his practice. His compositions combine historical references and contemporary images, incorporating quotes from popular culture, interwoven with religious and social  iconographies . The way he juxtaposes and refashions these various elements reveals a deep understanding of art history, as well as a subversive sense of humor. Dr.  Lakra  dismantles and subverts dominant ideologies to question what is considered civilized or barbaric, correct or innocent, “high” or “folk” art ( Kurimanzutto , n.d.,  para . 1).

               As in three of his works from 2004, Untitled (Films), Untitled (Maria Montez), and Untitled (Emana), Dr. Lakra has revived these forms from the past, marking them with skulls, faces, spiders, demons, and death. Untitled (Films) is a portrait of Evelyn Knapp, an American actress who stared in many B-movies and cliffhangers; having a thriving career in the 1920s and 30s, then tapering off into the 1940s, Knapp left a legacy of films and photographs in the media of the time. Her cause of death in the early 1980s was recorded as unknown and remained undisclosed with a timely cremation shortly thereafter. Dr. Lakra adorns her body with symbols of death: skulls live on her shoulder and hand and in the smoke around her face, a knife is drawn piercing her chest, chains wrap her neck like fine jewels, snakes looking to devour her like Cleopatra, and the unlucky number “13” at her temple above a drawn tear from her eye (Abaroa, Alonzo, Lakra & Orozco, 2010, p. 11). Yet, the major elements of contrast is the angles’ wing coming from one half of her chest and the bats’ wing from the other half, as well as the tattoo on her right hand that spells “PUNT-” (Abaroa et al., 2010, p. 5). Knapp lived a life that left no scandal to tarnish her reputation, yet Dr. Lakra took the opportunity to create as much with the markings on her body; as he works to create the aversion of empty space with tattoos on her naked skin, Dr. Lakra turns the bright-eyed Hollywood actress into a dark and fearful image as he transitions her from innocence to darkness and a new sense of empowerment (Amirsadeghi, 2014, p. 180). No longer is she pure and empowered by goodness, she radiates contradicting empowerment, as though it were bestowed from hell, for she is autonomous from the viewer but a slave to death as her tattoo “PUNT” may actually say “PUNTA,” which is Spanish for “end” or “tip.”

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Purdue Online Writing Lab Purdue OWL® College of Liberal Arts

In-Text Citations: The Basics

Welcome to the Purdue OWL

This page is brought to you by the OWL at Purdue University. When printing this page, you must include the entire legal notice.

Copyright ©1995-2018 by The Writing Lab & The OWL at Purdue and Purdue University. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, reproduced, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our terms and conditions of fair use.

Note:  This page reflects the latest version of the APA Publication Manual (i.e., APA 7), which released in October 2019. The equivalent resource for the older APA 6 style  can be found here .

Reference citations in text are covered on pages 261-268 of the Publication Manual. What follows are some general guidelines for referring to the works of others in your essay.

Note:  On pages 117-118, the Publication Manual suggests that authors of research papers should use the past tense or present perfect tense for signal phrases that occur in the literature review and procedure descriptions (for example, Jones (1998)  found  or Jones (1998)  has found ...). Contexts other than traditionally-structured research writing may permit the simple present tense (for example, Jones (1998)  finds ).

APA Citation Basics

When using APA format, follow the author-date method of in-text citation. This means that the author's last name and the year of publication for the source should appear in the text, like, for example, (Jones, 1998). One complete reference for each source should appear in the reference list at the end of the paper.

If you are referring to an idea from another work but  NOT  directly quoting the material, or making reference to an entire book, article or other work, you only have to make reference to the author and year of publication and not the page number in your in-text reference.

On the other hand, if you are directly quoting or borrowing from another work, you should include the page number at the end of the parenthetical citation. Use the abbreviation “p.” (for one page) or “pp.” (for multiple pages) before listing the page number(s). Use an en dash for page ranges. For example, you might write (Jones, 1998, p. 199) or (Jones, 1998, pp. 199–201). This information is reiterated below.

Regardless of how they are referenced, all sources that are cited in the text must appear in the reference list at the end of the paper.

In-text citation capitalization, quotes, and italics/underlining

• Always capitalize proper nouns, including author names and initials: D. Jones.
• If you refer to the title of a source within your paper, capitalize all words that are four letters long or greater within the title of a source:  Permanence and Change . Exceptions apply to short words that are verbs, nouns, pronouns, adjectives, and adverbs:  Writing New Media ,  There Is Nothing Left to Lose .

( Note:  in your References list, only the first word of a title will be capitalized:  Writing new media .)

• When capitalizing titles, capitalize both words in a hyphenated compound word:  Natural-Born Cyborgs .
• Capitalize the first word after a dash or colon: "Defining Film Rhetoric: The Case of Hitchcock's  Vertigo ."
• If the title of the work is italicized in your reference list, italicize it and use title case capitalization in the text:  The Closing of the American Mind ;  The Wizard of Oz ;  Friends .
• If the title of the work is not italicized in your reference list, use double quotation marks and title case capitalization (even though the reference list uses sentence case): "Multimedia Narration: Constructing Possible Worlds;" "The One Where Chandler Can't Cry."

Short quotations

If you are directly quoting from a work, you will need to include the author, year of publication, and page number for the reference (preceded by "p." for a single page and “pp.” for a span of multiple pages, with the page numbers separated by an en dash).

You can introduce the quotation with a signal phrase that includes the author's last name followed by the date of publication in parentheses.

If you do not include the author’s name in the text of the sentence, place the author's last name, the year of publication, and the page number in parentheses after the quotation.

Long quotations

Place direct quotations that are 40 words or longer in a free-standing block of typewritten lines and omit quotation marks. Start the quotation on a new line, indented 1/2 inch from the left margin, i.e., in the same place you would begin a new paragraph. Type the entire quotation on the new margin, and indent the first line of any subsequent paragraph within the quotation 1/2 inch from the new margin. Maintain double-spacing throughout, but do not add an extra blank line before or after it. The parenthetical citation should come after the closing punctuation mark.

Because block quotation formatting is difficult for us to replicate in the OWL's content management system, we have simply provided a screenshot of a generic example below.

Formatting example for block quotations in APA 7 style.

Quotations from sources without pages

Direct quotations from sources that do not contain pages should not reference a page number. Instead, you may reference another logical identifying element: a paragraph, a chapter number, a section number, a table number, or something else. Older works (like religious texts) can also incorporate special location identifiers like verse numbers. In short: pick a substitute for page numbers that makes sense for your source.

Summary or paraphrase

If you are paraphrasing an idea from another work, you only have to make reference to the author and year of publication in your in-text reference and may omit the page numbers. APA guidelines, however, do encourage including a page range for a summary or paraphrase when it will help the reader find the information in a longer work. 

How-To Geek

How to make a block quote in google docs.

Format your long quotation correctly for the writing style you’re using.

Quick Links

Block quotes per writing style, option 1: do a block quote using an indent, option 2: create a block quote using the ruler, option 3: add a block quote using the tab key.

When you create an essay, research paper, or article where you're including a long quotation, it's key to format it correctly. Here, we'll show you three ways to make a block quote in Google Docs.

A block quote is a quotation in your document that is indented and begins on its own line to break it away from the rest of the text. This highlights the quote and makes stand out from the remaining parts of the document.

Related: How to Add Block Quotes in Microsoft Word

Both MLA and APA writing styles are similar in their requirements for block quotes. However, Chicago style rules differ.

• MLA : More than four lines of prose or three lines of verse, indented 0.5 inches from the left margin, no quotation marks, and maintain double-spacing
• APA : 40 words or longer, indented 0.5 inches from the left margin, no quotation marks, maintain double-spacing, and no line spaces above or below the quote
• Chicago : Five or more lines or 100 or more words, indented from the left margin, no quotations marks, and use single-spacing

If you're required to use one of these writing styles, be sure to check other requirements for block quotes or your paper in general. Check with your professor or the Purdue Online Writing Lab (OWL) .

Before using one of the below methods for creating your block quote, be sure to select the text. This quotation should start on its own line and subsequent text after the quote should also start on a new line.

Google Docs has a built-in tool for indenting paragraphs that you can use for your block quote.

With the text selected, click the Increase Indent button in the toolbar or select Format > Align & Indent > Increase Indent from the menu.

Related: How to Indent Paragraphs in Google Docs

If you use the Ruler in Google Docs for things like adjusting margins , you can use this tool to indent your block quote as well. To display the Ruler, go to View > Show Ruler from the menu.

Select the Left Indent indicator on the left side of the ruler. This is the triangle below the rectangle. Drag the indicator to the right until you reach 0.5 inches. You'll see this as you drag. When you reach that spot, release.

If you're using the default tab stops in Google Docs or have one set up for 0.5 inches from the margin, you can use the Tab key to indent your quote.

Again, make sure the entire block of quote text is selected, then press Tab.

Not every bit of formatting you do for your document is a major task. So, if you need to insert a block quote in Google Docs, be sure to format it the way it should be. It takes only a few seconds using these methods.

When you need to cite the source for your quote, take a look at how to add citations in Google Docs too.

Related: How to Find and Add Citations in Google Docs

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Using Long Quotations – Harvard Style

2-minute read

• 3rd January 2016

When writing an essay, we quote sources to support a point we’re making or to attribute particular ideas to a particular thinker. Using quotations judiciously is thus a vital study skill for every university student.

However, many people format longer quotations incorrectly in their work. Herein, we focus on Harvard style conventions for using quotations, in particular longer passages of text.

Quoting Sources – The Basics

Ideally, when quoting shorter passages, you should integrate them into the main body of your text. This is done by simply enclosing the quoted material inside ‘quotation marks’ and providing the relevant page numbers in your citation:

J. R. Irons (1948, p.1) says of bread that ‘there really is no other food to take its place’.

It’s worth noting that ‘single inverted commas’ are traditionally favoured in Australian English, but this has become more fluid lately, so you might want to check your university style guide on this matter.

Longer Quotations

Sometimes, however, you’ll need to quote a source more extensively. To do this, you can use a ‘block quote’. This is where the quoted text is separated from the main body of your work.

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Harvard conventions suggest doing this when quoting passages of 40-50 words (approximately four lines). To block quote, the quoted text must begin on a separate line after a colon and be inset from the rest of your essay, somewhat like this:

We must realise that bread is made to eat, and that the palate and not the eye must always be the deciding factor in how much is consumed. Bread will always have a place in the diet, but… there are signs that the bread of today is lacking – often dry, mostly under-fermented – and such is not likely to maintain sales. (Irons, 1948, p.4)

You’ll notice that indenting the text already distinguishes it from your own work, so quotations marks are not required in block quotations.

Depending on your style guide, you may also need to adjust the formatting of block quotes (e.g. changing the line spacing for quoted text). Whichever style you use, though, the important thing is that block quotes are:

a) Distinct from the main body of your work b) Clearly cited with the author name, year of publication and relevant page number(s) c) Presented consistently throughout your document

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