Whenever you refer to ideas, information, statistics, images, concepts, facts or anything else that you found from an outside source, you need to let your readers know where you found that information.
Typically, this is done by quoting, paraphrasing, or summarizing the information, and then citing the authors that produced it.
Quote - take an original section of text, word-for-word, and add it to your paper using "quotation marks."
When should you quote?
- The quote is from a lead authority on your issue and helps to emphasize the point you want to make.
- The original author uses unique or memorable language that would be more effective in making a point.
- It is difficult to paraphrase or summarize the quote without changing the intent of the author.
- Your attempts at paraphrasing the quote end up being longer or more confusing.
Paraphrase - put information into your own words. Paraphrases are generally the same length or slightly shorter than the original text. When you paraphrase well, it shows your understanding of the source material. Paraphrasing may be used instead of a summary because it is more specific.
When should you paraphrase?
- The wording of the original text is less important than the content of the original text
- You want to emphasize certain points that support your paper
- You want to clarify points for your audience when the original text may be more technical or specialized
Summarize - take the key points of the original text and put them into your own words--in a condensed form. Summaries are generally much shorter than the original text.
When should you summarize?
- The wording of the source text is less important than the content of the source text.
- You want to condense detailed material to highlight only points specific to your paper.
- You want to omit excess details not important for your paper.
- You want to simplify technical or specialized material for your audience.
In every case, you will need to cite the original source text using in-text or parenthetical citations, and also include the citation for the original source in your References list.