When it comes to formatting block quotes in MLA style, it can be a daunting task, especially for those who are new to academic writing. However, with the right tips and tricks, you can easily master the art of formatting block quotes and make your writing look professional and polished. In this article, we will explore 8 MLA block quote tips for easy formatting, providing you with the knowledge and skills you need to take your writing to the next level.
Understanding MLA Block Quote Guidelines
The Modern Language Association (MLA) provides specific guidelines for formatting block quotes, which are quotes that are longer than four lines of prose or three lines of verse. According to the MLA Handbook, block quotes should be indented one inch from the left margin and double-spaced, just like the rest of the text. The quote should be formatted in a way that is consistent with the rest of the text, with the same font and font size.
Tip 1: Indent the Block Quote Correctly
To indent a block quote, you can use the ruler in your word processor or type a specific number of spaces to create the indentation. In MLA style, the block quote should be indented one inch from the left margin, which is equivalent to five spaces or a tab stop. You can also use the “Indent” feature in your word processor to create the indentation.
Tip 2: Use Double Spacing
MLA style requires that block quotes be double-spaced, just like the rest of the text. This means that you should leave a blank line between each line of the quote, making it easy to read and understand. You can set your word processor to double spacing by going to the “Paragraph” or “Formatting” menu and selecting the “Double” option.
Tip 3: Remove Quotation Marks
When formatting a block quote, you should remove the quotation marks that would normally be used to set off the quote. This is because the indentation and double spacing are used to indicate that the text is a quote, making the quotation marks unnecessary. By removing the quotation marks, you can create a clean and professional-looking block quote.
Tip 4: Use a Colon to Introduce the Block Quote
When introducing a block quote, you should use a colon to separate the introductory phrase from the quote itself. For example, “The following quote illustrates the main point:…”. The colon is used to indicate that the quote is a direct continuation of the introductory phrase, making it clear that the quote is being used to support the argument.
Tip 5: Format the Block Quote Consistently
When formatting a block quote, you should make sure that the font and font size are consistent with the rest of the text. This means that you should use the same font and font size for the block quote as you do for the rest of the text, making it easy to read and understand. You should also avoid using bold or italic text, unless it is necessary to emphasize a particular point.
Tip 6: Use a Period to End the Block Quote
When ending a block quote, you should use a period to indicate the end of the quote. The period should be placed after the final line of the quote, followed by the citation information. For example, “…end of the quote. (Author 23)”. The period is used to separate the quote from the citation information, making it clear that the quote is being used to support the argument.
Tip 7: Provide Citation Information
When using a block quote, you should provide citation information to indicate the source of the quote. The citation information should be placed after the final line of the quote, in parentheses. For example, “…end of the quote. (Author 23)”. The citation information should include the author’s last name and the page number, separated by a space.
Tip 8: Check the MLA Handbook for Specific Guidelines
Finally, it is always a good idea to check the MLA Handbook for specific guidelines on formatting block quotes. The MLA Handbook provides detailed instructions on how to format block quotes, including examples and illustrations. By checking the MLA Handbook, you can ensure that your block quotes are formatted correctly and consistently, making your writing look professional and polished.
| MLA Block Quote Guidelines | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Indentation | One inch from the left margin |
| Spacing | Double-spaced |
| Quotation Marks | Removed |
| Introduction | Colon used to introduce the block quote |
| Font and Font Size | Consistent with the rest of the text |
| Ending | Period used to end the block quote |
| Citation Information | Provided after the final line of the quote |
What is the correct indentation for a block quote in MLA style?
+The correct indentation for a block quote in MLA style is one inch from the left margin, which is equivalent to five spaces or a tab stop.
Should I use quotation marks when formatting a block quote in MLA style?
+No, you should not use quotation marks when formatting a block quote in MLA style. The indentation and double spacing are used to indicate that the text is a quote, making the quotation marks unnecessary.
How do I provide citation information for a block quote in MLA style?
+You should provide citation information in parentheses after the final line of the block quote, including the author’s last name and the page number, separated by a space. For example, “…end of the quote. (Author 23)”.
