How do you introduce a quote in a research paper?

Question

This question concerns how to incorporate a quotation effectively and how to avoid "dropped quotes."

Answer 1

Hello,

Research papers often include previously published studies and important findings on the research topic. There are several ways to cite an external source, depending on the medium. To cite from a book, cite the quote in double quotation marks, include the author's name, page, and the full source in the work-cited page. For example,

According to (author), " " (page number)

Hope that helps!

Answer 2

When quoting sentences or phrases from your research, you should avoid using dropped quotes. Quotes need to be connected to your writing so that their purpose is clear and so that the writing keeps flowing smoothly. Fortunately, there are several ways to introduce a quote.

The first option is to use a signal phrase, such as "The author states." Here are two examples:

1. Smith states, "Rainbows are pretty" (1).
2. One author argues that "rainbows are pretty" (Smith 1).

This option works best with complete sentences. "States" and "argues" are signal verbs, and they can help you show your audience what the quote means and how it fits into your own writing. There are many signal verbs, so choose wisely!

Another option is to use a complete sentence, followed by a colon and then the quote. Here is an example:

1. Smith presents his opinion of rainbows in simple terms: "Rainbows are pretty" (1).

The full sentence can be used to give more information about the quote or even to help your audience understand how you have interpreted the quote.

A third option is to use an introductory phrase, such as "According to." Here are two examples:

1. According to Smith, "rainbows are pretty" (1).
2. In Smith's words, "rainbows are pretty" (1).

As you can see, the quote forms a complete sentence. It's important to write a complete sentence, either using a quote with its own subject and verb or by incorporating a partial quote into your own sentence (as shown below).

Finally, you can incorporate a partial quote into your own sentence, as follows:

1. In many ways, we see that rainbows are "pretty because they are colorful" (Smith 1).

So try a few of these methods for introducing quotes in your next paper. You'll see a huge difference in your writing.