Which Line Is A Direct Quotation From An External Source

Jordan Emanuel

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08-12-2024

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Identifying direct quotations is crucial for academic integrity and clear communication. A direct quotation uses the exact wording from an external source, enclosed in quotation marks. This differs from paraphrasing, which restates information in your own words, or summarizing, which condenses information into a shorter form. Both paraphrasing and summarizing still require proper citation, but they don't use the original author's exact phrasing.

Here's a breakdown to help you distinguish:

Direct Quotation Example:

Let's say you're writing about the impact of climate change. A direct quotation might look like this:

"The scientific consensus is that climate change is unequivocal and primarily caused by human activities," according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Key features of a direct quotation:

• Quotation Marks: The exact words from the IPCC report are enclosed in double quotation marks (" ").
• Attribution: The source of the quotation (the IPCC) is clearly identified.
• Accuracy: The quoted text is a verbatim reproduction of the original.

Paraphrasing Example:

The same information could be paraphrased as:

Scientists overwhelmingly agree that human actions are the main driver of undeniable climate change.

Notice the differences: The paraphrased version uses different wording while conveying the same essential meaning. It still needs a citation to give credit to the IPCC.

Summarizing Example:

A summary would condense the information even further:

Human activity is the primary cause of climate change, a scientifically established fact.

Again, a citation is needed even though the original wording isn't used.

How to Identify Direct Quotations in Your Own Work:

When reviewing your writing, look for any sections enclosed in quotation marks. Verify that the quoted text is an exact match to the original source. If you've adapted the wording even slightly, it's no longer a direct quotation but a paraphrase or a summary, still needing proper citation.

Consequences of Incorrect Quotation:

Failure to correctly identify and cite direct quotations constitutes plagiarism, a serious academic offense with significant consequences, including potential failing grades or expulsion. It also undermines the credibility of your work. Always be meticulous in your citation practices.