This is true for both prose and poetry.īasic in-text citation structures for quotes It need not be given introductory or conclusive commentary.Ī direct quote can either incorporate the name of the author within the text, or after the quotation.

It should be a replica of the original quote. MLA citation format for direct quotesĪs per the MLA citation format, a direct quote can be directly included in the running text by simply using quotation marks. Conclude the block quote with explanation or commentary. Introduce a block quote with an introductory sentence/comment. Similarly, if you intend to add a quote of prose longer than 4 lines, format this as a block quote as well. If you intend to add a quote of poetry that is longer than 3 lines, format it as a block quote. In a paper in MLA format, a long quote should be formatted as a block quote. When including a direct quote, there must be no changes to the spelling, punctuation, or capitalization of the original quote.įor help writing your essay, research paper, or other project, check out these writing tips.

A direct quote should always be enclosed within quotation marks.Ī direct quote from both prose and poetry can be directly incorporated into the text with the use of quotation marks. It should not be changed, apart from adding or omitting brackets. A direct quote in MLA citation style is a direct or exact reproduction of the source quote.

Quote more than 4 lines