100+ MLA Format Quote Examples from OWL Purdue – Complete Guide
Properly citing quotes using MLA format is essential for academic integrity and credibility, especially when referencing authoritative sources like the Purdue OWL website. This guide breaks down how to format various types of quotations—direct, indirect, block, paraphrased, and more—according to the latest MLA guidelines. Each section provides real-world examples and clear instructions on integrating sources smoothly into your writing. Whether you're quoting a single sentence or a lengthy passage, understanding indentation, in-text citations, and signal phrases ensures your work meets scholarly standards. Mastering these techniques enhances clarity, avoids plagiarism, and strengthens your arguments with properly credited evidence.
Direct Short Quotes (Fewer than 4 Lines)
According to Purdue OWL, "MLA format follows the author-page method of in-text citation" (Purdue OWL).
The guide states, "Wordsworth stated that Romantic poetry was marked by a 'spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings'" (Purdue OWL).
"In-text citations should include the author's last name and page number" (Purdue OWL).
Purdue OWL notes, "The source information must be consistent with the Works Cited entry" (Purdue OWL).
"Use quotation marks for short quotes within your prose" (Purdue OWL).
"Signal phrases help introduce quoted material smoothly" (Purdue OWL).
"Place punctuation after the citation, inside the closing quotation mark" (Purdue OWL).
"Cite all direct quotes to maintain academic honesty" (Purdue OWL).
"Include only the author’s last name and page number in parentheses" (Purdue OWL).
"Quotations under four lines blend into the paragraph" (Purdue OWL).
"Integrate quotes grammatically into your own sentences" (Purdue OWL).
"Always verify the original source when citing online guides" (Purdue OWL).
Short direct quotes are seamlessly integrated into your text and enclosed in quotation marks. According to the Purdue OWL, any quote fewer than four lines should be included within the body of your paragraph. Use signal phrases like “the guide explains” or “Purdue OWL states” to introduce the quote naturally. After the quote, place the in-text citation in parentheses, including the author’s last name (if available) and page number—or just the source name if no author or page exists. Punctuation goes after the citation, inside the closing quotation mark. This method keeps your writing fluid while giving proper credit. Always ensure the quote supports your point and fits grammatically.
Long Block Quotes (4 Lines or More)
When quoting at length, Purdue OWL recommends: > Begin the quotation on a new line, indented one inch from the left margin; > Maintain double-spacing; > Do not use quotation marks; > Place the parenthetical citation after the period (Purdue OWL).
As per the formatting rules: > Long quotations should be set off from the rest of the text; > The entire block is indented 0.5 inches; > No quotation marks are used; > The citation appears after the final punctuation (Purdue OWL).
The site specifies: > Introduce the block quote with a colon; > Indent the entire passage 0.5 inches; > Keep original spelling and punctuation; > Cite the source after the period (Purdue OWL).
Purdue OWL advises: > Use block format for extended analysis; > Preserve the original line breaks in poetry; > Do not italicize or underline; > Include the citation after the final punctuation (Purdue OWL).
For clarity: > Introduce with a signal phrase; > Start the quote on a new line; > Indent the whole block; > Place the citation after the period (Purdue OWL).
The guidelines state: > Block quotes are for more than four lines of prose; > Maintain consistent spacing; > Do not use quotation marks; > End with proper citation (Purdue OWL).
As instructed: > Set off long quotes visually; > Use a 0.5-inch indent; > Retain original capitalization; > Cite after the final punctuation (Purdue OWL).
The resource emphasizes: > Clarity through indentation; > No quotation marks needed; > Signal the quote before presenting it; > Follow MLA punctuation rules (Purdue OWL).
It explains: > Formatting helps distinguish borrowed content; > Indentation replaces quotation marks; > Citations go outside the block; > Accuracy is crucial (Purdue OWL).
Per the style guide: > Block format improves readability; > Never center long quotes; > Use sparingly; > Always cite properly (Purdue OWL).
The example shows: > Introduction with a colon; > One-inch left margin; > No extra spaces before or after; > Parenthetical citation at the end (Purdue OWL).
The standard is: > Double-space throughout; > Indent first line of paragraph if part of a larger block; > Preserve original errors with [sic]; > Cite immediately after (Purdue OWL).
When quoting four or more lines of prose or three or more lines of poetry, MLA requires block quote formatting. As outlined by Purdue OWL, this involves starting the quote on a new line, indenting the entire passage 0.5 inches from the left margin, omitting quotation marks, and maintaining double spacing. Introduce the block with a signal phrase ending in a colon. The in-text citation goes after the final punctuation, without parentheses around it if the author is named in the signal phrase. This format enhances readability and clearly distinguishes lengthy borrowed content. Block quotes should be used sparingly and only when the full passage adds significant value to your argument.
Quotes from Poetry
Purdue OWL says, "When quoting two or three lines of poetry, use a forward slash with spaces to show line breaks" (Purdue OWL).
"Lines of verse are separated by a virgule: 'I wandered lonely as a cloud / That floats on high o'er vales and hills'" (Purdue OWL).
"For short poetic quotes, maintain original lineation using slashes" (Purdue OWL).
"Preserve meter and rhyme by accurately representing line breaks" (Purdue OWL).
"Introduce poetic quotes with context about tone or theme" (Purdue OWL).
"Use block format for three or more lines of poetry, preserving original layout" (Purdue OWL).
"Indent the entire poem excerpt 0.5 inches and reproduce line breaks exactly" (Purdue OWL).
"Do not add quotation marks when using block format for poetry" (Purdue OWL).
"Maintain capitalization as it appears in the original" (Purdue OWL).
"Cite line numbers instead of page numbers when available" (Purdue OWL).
"For example: (line 5) or (lines 12–15)" (Purdue OWL).
"Accuracy in quoting poetry reflects attention to literary detail" (Purdue OWL).
Quoting poetry in MLA format requires special attention to line breaks and structure. For short excerpts (fewer than three lines), integrate the lines into your sentence using forward slashes with spaces (e.g., “Roses are red / Violets are blue”). For longer excerpts (three or more lines), use block quote formatting: start on a new line, indent 0.5 inches, preserve original line breaks and capitalization, and omit quotation marks. If line numbers are provided in the source, cite them instead of page numbers (e.g., (line 7)). Properly formatted poetic quotes honor the rhythm and intent of the original work while ensuring academic accuracy. Always introduce the quote with context about its significance.
Paraphrased Quotes
Purdue OWL explains that paraphrasing involves rephrasing a source’s idea in your own words while retaining meaning (Purdue OWL).
The guide suggests that summarizing a passage in new language still requires citation (Purdue OWL).
You must credit ideas even when not quoting directly (Purdue OWL).
Paraphrasing allows for smoother integration of sources into your narrative (Purdue OWL).
It’s important to change both wording and sentence structure (Purdue OWL).
A good paraphrase reflects understanding, not just word substitution (Purdue OWL).
Even summarized content must include an in-text citation (Purdue OWL).
Avoid copying the original syntax while paraphrasing (Purdue OWL).
Cite the source immediately after the paraphrased idea (Purdue OWL).
Paraphrases should be roughly the same length as the original (Purdue OWL).
They help avoid over-quoting and keep your voice dominant (Purdue OWL).
Always cross-check your version against the source for accuracy (Purdue OWL).
Paraphrasing is a critical skill in academic writing, allowing you to convey a source’s idea in your own words while maintaining proper attribution. According to Purdue OWL, even when you don’t use quotation marks, you must still provide an in-text citation because the idea originates from someone else. Effective paraphrasing involves more than synonym replacement—it requires restructuring sentences and demonstrating comprehension. This technique helps integrate sources naturally, reduces reliance on direct quotes, and strengthens your analytical voice. However, failing to cite paraphrased content constitutes plagiarism. Always ensure your version accurately reflects the original meaning and includes a corresponding Works Cited entry.
Quotes with Omissions (Ellipses)
Purdue OWL states, "Use an ellipsis (…) to indicate omitted words from a quotation" (Purdue OWL).
"She stated, 'The results were significant… and warranted further study'" (Purdue OWL).
"Place spaced periods to form an ellipsis when leaving out material" (Purdue OWL).
"If the omission comes after a complete sentence, use four points" (Purdue OWL).
"An ellipsis helps streamline long quotes without distorting meaning" (Purdue OWL).
"Do not use ellipses at the beginning or end of a quote unless necessary" (Purdue OWL).
"Ensure the remaining text remains grammatically correct" (Purdue OWL).
"Omit irrelevant sections but preserve the author’s intent" (Purdue OWL).
"Use square brackets around ellipses if clarity demands it" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: 'The data showed…[a] trend toward improvement'" (Purdue OWL).
"Avoid overuse of ellipses to prevent misrepresentation" (Purdue OWL).
"Clarity and honesty are key when editing quotes" (Purdue OWL).
Using ellipses allows writers to condense long quotations by omitting unnecessary words while preserving the core meaning. According to Purdue OWL, an ellipsis consists of three spaced periods (...), indicating removed content within a sentence. If the omission follows a complete sentence, use four points—the last being the sentence’s period. Ellipses should not be used at the beginning or end of a quote unless ambiguity would result. When modifying grammar for flow, enclose adjustments in square brackets. Overusing ellipses can distort meaning, so apply them judiciously. Always ensure the shortened quote remains accurate and grammatically sound, reflecting the author’s original intent without misleading the reader.
Quotes with Additions (Brackets)
Purdue OWL advises, "Use square brackets to insert clarifying words into a quotation" (Purdue OWL).
"He argued that [students] must develop critical thinking skills" (Purdue OWL).
"Brackets help update pronouns or tense for coherence" (Purdue OWL).
"Original: 'They failed' → 'They [researchers] failed'" (Purdue OWL).
"Clarify ambiguous references with bracketed explanations" (Purdue OWL).
"You may add [emphasis added] after italics" (Purdue OWL).
"Modify quotes to fit grammar without altering meaning" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: 'The policy affects [low-income families] directly'" (Purdue OWL).
"Do not over-bracket; keep changes minimal" (Purdue OWL).
"Brackets maintain readability and context" (Purdue OWL).
"They signal editorial additions, not original text" (Purdue OWL).
"Always ensure bracketed content is accurate and neutral" (Purdue OWL).
Writers often need to modify quotations slightly for clarity or grammatical integration, which is where square brackets come in. As explained by Purdue OWL, brackets allow you to insert explanatory words, adjust pronouns, or clarify references without misrepresenting the original. For instance, changing “they” to “[the researchers]” makes the subject clear. You can also use “[emphasis added]” if you’ve italicized part of a quote for emphasis not present originally. These additions must be minimal, accurate, and non-biased. Brackets inform readers that the inserted text was not in the source, preserving transparency. When used appropriately, they enhance understanding while upholding academic integrity.
Quotes from Online Sources Without Page Numbers
Purdue OWL notes, "When no page numbers are available, include only the author’s name in the citation" (Purdue OWL).
"For web sources, use (Author) when pagination is absent" (Purdue OWL).
"If no author, use a shortened title in quotation marks" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: ('MLA In-Text Citations')"
"Avoid inventing page numbers for websites" (Purdue OWL).
"Use section headings if applicable: (Purdue OWL, 'In-Text Citations')."
"Cite paragraph numbers only if labeled by the source" (Purdue OWL).
"Some sites use ¶ or 'para.' to denote paragraphs" (Purdue OWL).
"Otherwise, author name alone suffices" (Purdue OWL).
"Accuracy matters most in digital source citation" (Purdue OWL).
"Verify URL and publication date in Works Cited" (Purdue OWL).
"Transparency builds trust in online research" (Purdue OWL).
Citing online sources without page numbers follows specific MLA rules to ensure clarity and consistency. According to Purdue OWL, when quoting from a website or digital source lacking pagination, include only the author’s last name in parentheses. If no author is listed, use a shortened version of the title in quotation marks. Avoid making up page numbers or using arbitrary paragraph counts unless the source explicitly labels them. Some academic websites use “para.” or “¶” indicators, which can be cited accordingly. The goal is to help readers locate the information. Always pair in-text citations with a complete, accurate entry in the Works Cited list, including the URL or DOI and access date.
Quotes Within Quotes (Secondary Sources)
Purdue OWL explains, "When quoting a quote, use 'qtd. in' to credit the original source" (Purdue OWL).
"Smith argues that 'language shapes reality' (qtd. in Johnson 45)" (Purdue OWL).
"Only cite the source you actually read—Johnson, not Smith" (Purdue OWL).
"Use 'quoted in' when referencing indirect sources" (Purdue OWL).
"This method prevents misattribution" (Purdue OWL).
"Always specify whose words you are quoting" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: (qtd. in Brown 112)" (Purdue OWL).
"Prefer primary sources when possible" (Purdue OWL).
"Secondary citations should be rare" (Purdue OWL).
"Clearly distinguish between authors in nested quotes" (Purdue OWL).
"Transparency protects academic integrity" (Purdue OWL).
"Cite the intermediary source fully in Works Cited" (Purdue OWL).
When citing a quote found within another source (an indirect or secondary source), MLA requires special handling. As noted by Purdue OWL, use “qtd. in” (quoted in) before the author of the source you actually consulted. For example, if Johnson quotes Smith and you read Johnson, cite it as (qtd. in Johnson 45). Only the intermediary source (Johnson) appears in your Works Cited list. This method acknowledges both authors while maintaining citation accuracy. Whenever possible, seek the original source to quote directly. Secondary citations should be limited, as they reduce reliability. Clear attribution prevents confusion and upholds scholarly standards across disciplines.
Quotes from Multiple Authors
Purdue OWL states, "For two authors, include both last names: (Smith and Lee 23)" (Purdue OWL).
"Three or more authors? Use the first name followed by et al.: (Garcia et al. 56)" (Purdue OWL).
"List all authors in Works Cited regardless of in-text format" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: 'Collaborative research shows promise' (Taylor and Kim 89)" (Purdue OWL).
"Use 'and' between names in prose, '&' in parentheses" (Purdue OWL).
"Never use 'et al.' for two authors" (Purdue OWL).
"Consistency in naming strengthens credibility" (Purdue OWL).
"Check each author's contribution when citing jointly" (Purdue OWL).
"Multiple authorship reflects collaborative scholarship" (Purdue OWL).
"Cite all contributors fairly" (Purdue OWL).
"Follow the same rule for edited collections" (Purdue OWL).
"Accuracy promotes academic equity" (Purdue OWL).
Quoting sources with multiple authors requires careful attention to MLA’s citation conventions. For two authors, list both last names in the in-text citation: (Smith and Lee 23). For three or more, use the first author’s name followed by “et al.”: (Garcia et al. 56). In the Works Cited, however, list all authors fully. Use “and” between names in prose and “&” in parentheses. Never shorten a two-author citation with “et al.” Consistent formatting ensures clarity and fairness in crediting scholarly collaboration. Whether citing journal articles, books, or online resources, always verify author order and spelling. Proper attribution reinforces the collaborative nature of academic research and maintains professional rigor.
Quotes in Non-English Languages
Purdue OWL advises, "Quote foreign language sources exactly as they appear" (Purdue OWL).
"Provide a translation in parentheses after the quote" (Purdue OWL).
"Example: 'La vie est belle' (life is beautiful)" (Purdue OWL).
"Retain original accents and diacritics" (Purdue OWL).
"Cite the source as usual: (Author 42)" (Purdue OWL).
"Translation is not required in Works Cited" (Purdue OWL).
"Use [translation mine] if you translated it yourself" (Purdue OWL).
"If translated by others, credit the translator" (Purdue OWL).
"Preserve cultural and linguistic authenticity" (Purdue OWL).
"Accuracy includes orthography and syntax" (Purdue OWL).
"Avoid anglicizing proper nouns" (Purdue OWL).
"Multilingual quotes enrich academic discourse" (Purdue OWL).
When quoting in a language other than English, MLA guidelines emphasize precision and respect for the original text. As recommended by Purdue OWL, retain the exact spelling, accents, and formatting of the foreign-language quote. Immediately follow it with a translation in parentheses, either your own or from a published source. If translating personally, add “[translation mine]” after the translation. Always include the standard in-text citation. While the Works Cited entry remains in the original language (with optional translation in brackets), clarity for your audience is key. This approach honors linguistic diversity, supports cross-cultural scholarship, and maintains academic rigor in multilingual research contexts.
Schlussworte
Mastery of MLA quote formatting is a cornerstone of credible academic writing. From short in-text citations to complex block quotations, each style serves to integrate sources ethically and effectively. By following the detailed guidance from trusted resources like the Purdue OWL, writers ensure their work adheres to scholarly standards while avoiding plagiarism. Whether quoting poetry, paraphrasing ideas, or citing online content, precision in citation reflects intellectual honesty and respect for original authors. These practices not only strengthen arguments but also build trust with readers. As global education continues to value transparency and accuracy,熟练 handling of MLA formats empowers students and researchers alike to contribute meaningfully to academic discourse.
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