ACT (Enhanced)EnglishEasy
A student is writing a research paper and needs to properly integrate a short quotation into their text. They are citing a sentence from a source. Which of the following examples correctly incorporates the quotation using standard academic conventions? Which example correctly integrates the quotation?
- AThe study revealed a significant correlation between exercise and cognitive function. (Smith, 2020)
- BAs Smith (2020) notes, "The study revealed a significant correlation between exercise and cognitive function" (p. 45).
- CSmith (2020) states that, "the study revealed a significant correlation between exercise and cognitive function."
- DAccording to Smith (2020) "The study revealed a significant correlation between exercise and cognitive function."
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. As Smith (2020) notes, "The study revealed a significant correlation between exercise and cognitive function" (p. 45).
Option C correctly introduces the quotation with a signal phrase and a comma, capitalizes the first word of the quoted sentence, and places the parenthetical citation (including page number) after the closing quotation mark but before the final punctuation.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This option lacks an introductory signal phrase and incorrectly places the parenthetical citation after the period, which is incorrect in most citation styles for direct quotes.
- C. This option incorrectly capitalizes 'the' after 'states that,' which should only be capitalized if the quote begins a new sentence after a colon.
- D. This option incorrectly places the period inside the quotation marks and lacks a page number in the citation.
Integrating Short Quotations
To integrate short quotations (under 4 lines of prose or 3 lines of verse) into text, use a signal phrase, enclose the quote in quotation marks, and provide an in-text citation.
- Use a signal phrase (e.g., 'According to Smith,' 'As Jones argues').
- Place a comma after the signal phrase if it introduces a complete sentence.
- Enclose the quoted material in double quotation marks.
- Provide an in-text citation (author, year, page number) after the quote but before the final punctuation.
Memory trick: Quote Integration: Signal, Quote, Cite, Punctuate – a perfect fit for your text.