Master MLA Quote Format - Essential Guide

Master MLA Quote Format - Essential Guide

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding MLA Quotes and In-text Citations
   • 2.1 What is a direct quote?
   • 2.2 How to properly write a direct quote
   • 2.3 Correct placement of in-text citations
3. Handling Dialogue in Quotes
   • 3.1 Using single quotes for dialogue
   • 3.2 Examples of incorporating dialogue in quotes
4. Using Brackets in Quotes
   • 4.1 When and why to use brackets in quotes
   • 4.2 Examples of using brackets in quotes
5. Incorporating Ellipsis in Quotes
   • 5.1 Using ellipsis to skip text in quotes
   • 5.2 Proper usage of ellipsis in quotes
6. Punctuation Guidelines for Introducing Quotes
   • 6.1 Comma usage for independent introductions
   • 6.2 No comma needed for seamless introductions
   • 6.3 Using a colon for complete sentence introductions
7. Conclusion

Understanding MLA Quotes and In-text Citations

When writing an essay that includes quotes from literature, it is crucial to ensure that the quotes are properly formatted and accompanied by appropriate MLA in-text citations. In this article, we will delve into the details of MLA quotes and in-text citations, providing you with the necessary guidance to accurately incorporate quotes into your writing.

What is a direct quote?

A direct quote refers to taking a word-for-word excerpt from a text and including it in your essay. When incorporating a direct quote, it is essential to use quotation marks to indicate that the words belong to someone else. Additionally, you must immediately follow the quote with an in-text citation, which includes the author's last name and the page number from where the quote originates.

How to properly write a direct quote

To ensure that your direct quote is written correctly, remember that the quote itself and the in-text citation should be treated as one sentence. This means that a period should be placed after the in-text citation, not within the quote itself. For example, during a frustrating conversation with Lennie, George says, "I can get along so easy and so nice if I didn't have you on my tail" (Steinbach 23).

Correct placement of in-text citations

It is common for students to mistakenly place a period inside the end of the quote, before the in-text citation. However, it is important to note that the period should be placed outside the in-text citation. The period signifies the end of the sentence, and the quote and in-text citation should be perceived as one complete sentence. Therefore, the period should follow the in-text citation.