The block quote is used
for direct quotations that are longer than four lines of prose, or longer than three lines of poetry
. A block quote is always used when quoting dialogue between characters, as in a play. The block format is a freestanding quote that does not include quotation marks.
When should you not use a block quote?
- DON'T use a block quote for a quote you obtained firsthand. …
- DON'T use a block quote for any quoted segment that is both less than three full lines of text in the editing interface and fewer than five sentences. …
- DON'T use quotation marks to open and close a block quote.
When should students use a block quote?
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.
Is it bad to use a lot of block quotes?
Good question! Because the block quote is longer and formatted differently,
it should be used sparingly
. After all, we don't simply want to quote an entire poem or a whole page from a book. That wouldn't make much sense in an essay that's all our own.
How should a block quotation be justified?
- Single-spaced.
- Indented on the right and left sides.
- Text justified.
- Double spaced below and after the block quote.
What is a block quote example?
| Citation style Block quote minimum length | ACS 50 words | Chicago APSA 100 words | MLA Four lines of prose Three lines of poetry or verse |
|---|
How long is a block quote?
Basics. 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.
Can a block quote be on two pages?
The MLA Style Center
In a manuscript or student paper,
it is fine for a block quotation to be split across two pages
or for the entire quotation to be moved to the top of the next page. In a professionally published work, the publisher will determine how the quotation should be set.
Should I italicize a block quote?
Block quotations can be used
when the quotation is made up of more than four lines
. … The block quotes should always be indented and be started off in a new line. Block quotations can also be formatted in italics for the reader to identify them easily.
Should Block quotes be single spaced?
Block quotes are used for direct quotations that are longer than 40 words. They should be offset from the main text and do not include quotation marks. … Indent the entire quote 1⁄2 inch or 5-7 spaces;
the block quote may be single-spaced
. Include the page number at the end of your block quote outside of the ending period.
How do I stop block quotes?
- Introduce the quotation. Supply the quotation's background context. …
- Insert the quotation itself. …
- Discuss the quotation's significance.
How do I stop excessive quoting?
- Be careful to avoid quoting excessively; paraphrase whenever possible. …
- If you do quote, avoid freestanding quotations. …
- Do quote words of special significance or particular eloquence. …
- Do not use quotation marks around terms of art. …
- Try to avoid using block quotes of 50 words or longer.
Can I start an essay with a block quote?
Yes
, an essay may start with a block quotation. The quotation should be important to your discussion and referred to in your prose.
How many block quotes can I use?
There are no official limits to quotation length
, though any quotations that are more than four lines should be formatted as a separate block quote. However, it is generally better to paraphrase the sources you cite rather than use direct quotations.
How do I do a block quote in APA?
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.
How do you do a block quote in APA 7?
- Any quotation containing 40 or more words should be formatted as a Block Quote.
- Do not use quotation marks to enclose block quotations. …
- 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 1⁄2 inch from the left margin.
