Quote, Paraphrase, Summarize
When you use information from outside sources to support your arguments, you need to decide how you will present that information in your paper.
Quote: use the author’s exact language, word for word
Tips for using quotations:
- Use quotes only when the exact wording is important to retain meaning, or you think it is important to use the author's original words in your paper.
- Don't overuse quotations; use them to emphasize a point or support your argument.
- Avoid long quotations when a short one will suffice.
- Don't take quotations out of context to misrepresent the original author's opinion.
- Be certain you understand any technical terms the author uses.
- Always introduce your quotations with a signal phrase, such as "according to Smith" or other means of contextualizing them.
- Use a variety of sources. If all of the quotes used come from one source, you are limiting your credibility and lack support for your claims.
Paraphrase: restate the author’s exact language in your own words
Tips for paraphrasing:
- Change the phrasing (not just a couple of words).
- Keep/preserve the focus or author's intent intact.
- Cite the source you used to get the information even though you put it into your own words.
Summarize: summarize a long passage into a brief synopsis of the content
Tips for summarizing:
- Make sure you understand what your source is saying.
- Capture the main points in your own words.
- Do this when space limitations are an issue.
Avoid plagiarism by quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing!
Avoiding Plagiarism (CC) from PALNI on Vimeo.
