Writing Tip: Direct quotations should only be used sparingly and when you, the writer, want to bring special attention to a particular point or issue. Remember that you are the one writing the paper, and the vast majority of the ideas and words in the paper should be your own. Your instructors and readers want to hear your thoughts and conclusions, and the quotations and paraphrases you use should support what you have written. Watch the video above "Quoting, Paraphrasing, and Summarizing Your Resources" to learn more about quoting and paraphrasing. Keep in mind:
When to use a quotation:
Although paraphrasing information is preferable, there are specific situations when a quotation can be an effective choice. For example:
What is a Paraphrase?:
When incorporating a paraphrase into your writing, you will need to provide a citation, just as you would for a direct quotation. Even though you are writing in our own words, you are paraphrasing someone else's ideas. The ideas are not your own.
Qualities of a good paraphrase:
Paraphrasing Tips
When paraphrasing, you need to be careful to not plagiarize. Here are some helpful tips for paraphrasing:
Good Paraphrase vs. Plagiarism
Let's take a look at an example:
Original Passage:
Plagiarized Version:
(Notice that much of the text is taken directly from the original source. This passage is not in the writer's own words.)
Paraphrased Correctly Versions: