Question
How to properly phrase a quote in an informational essay
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When incorporating a quote into an informational essay, it's important to do so in a way that enhances your argument and fits seamlessly into your writing. Here are some steps to properly phrase a quote:
1. **Introduce the Quote**: Provide context for the quote before including it. This can be done by mentioning the author's name and a brief explanation of their relevance or expertise.
Example: According to cultural historian Anne Applebaum, “In the face of authoritarianism, the loyalty of a nation’s citizens is put to the test.”
2. **Integrate the Quote Smoothly**: Use a lead-in phrase or clause to make the quote flow naturally with your text.
Example: As many experts argue, “The future of democracy relies heavily on active civic engagement” (Smith, 2020).
3. **Use Quotation Marks**: Always enclose the quoted text in quotation marks to indicate that these are not your original words.
4. **Cite Appropriately**: Depending on the citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), make sure to properly cite the source of the quote in your bibliography and possibly in-text as well.
5. **Explain the Quote**: After including the quote, briefly explain its significance or how it relates to your argument. This helps to clarify its importance and reinforces your thesis.
Example: This statement underscores the importance of public involvement in democratic processes, a theme that is critical in today's political climate.
6. **Keep Quotes Relevant and Concise**: Ensure that the quote directly supports the point you are making. It should be relevant and ideally succinct.
### Example of Putting It All Together:
In discussing the importance of civic engagement in democracy, political scientist Jane Doe emphasizes, "Active participation in the political process is not just a right but a responsibility" (Doe, 2021). This highlights the notion that individual involvement is crucial to the health of democratic systems, suggesting that widespread participation can help safeguard against potential erosion of freedoms.
By following these steps, you can effectively incorporate quotes into your informational essay, making your writing more persuasive and authoritative.
1. **Introduce the Quote**: Provide context for the quote before including it. This can be done by mentioning the author's name and a brief explanation of their relevance or expertise.
Example: According to cultural historian Anne Applebaum, “In the face of authoritarianism, the loyalty of a nation’s citizens is put to the test.”
2. **Integrate the Quote Smoothly**: Use a lead-in phrase or clause to make the quote flow naturally with your text.
Example: As many experts argue, “The future of democracy relies heavily on active civic engagement” (Smith, 2020).
3. **Use Quotation Marks**: Always enclose the quoted text in quotation marks to indicate that these are not your original words.
4. **Cite Appropriately**: Depending on the citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.), make sure to properly cite the source of the quote in your bibliography and possibly in-text as well.
5. **Explain the Quote**: After including the quote, briefly explain its significance or how it relates to your argument. This helps to clarify its importance and reinforces your thesis.
Example: This statement underscores the importance of public involvement in democratic processes, a theme that is critical in today's political climate.
6. **Keep Quotes Relevant and Concise**: Ensure that the quote directly supports the point you are making. It should be relevant and ideally succinct.
### Example of Putting It All Together:
In discussing the importance of civic engagement in democracy, political scientist Jane Doe emphasizes, "Active participation in the political process is not just a right but a responsibility" (Doe, 2021). This highlights the notion that individual involvement is crucial to the health of democratic systems, suggesting that widespread participation can help safeguard against potential erosion of freedoms.
By following these steps, you can effectively incorporate quotes into your informational essay, making your writing more persuasive and authoritative.
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