The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is a widely accepted format for writing research papers, particularly in the humanities. One of the key aspects of MLA style is the proper formatting of quotations, including indented quotes. In this article, we will delve into the world of indented quotes in MLA format, exploring the rules and guidelines that govern their use.
What are Indented Quotes in MLA Format?
Indented quotes, also known as block quotes, are used in MLA format to set off lengthy quotations from the rest of the text. According to the MLA Handbook, a quote is considered lengthy if it exceeds four lines of typed text. When a quote meets this criteria, it is formatted as a block quote, which is indented from the left margin and does not require quotation marks.
Formatting Indented Quotes in MLA Style
To format an indented quote in MLA style, follow these steps:
- Indent the quote five spaces from the left margin, or use the “indent” feature in your word processing program to create a half-inch indent.
- Do not use quotation marks around the indented quote.
- Use a colon (:) to introduce the quote, unless the quote is integrated into the sentence, in which case a comma (,) or no punctuation at all may be used.
- Double-space the quote, just like the rest of the text.
- Include the citation information, such as the author’s last name and page number, in parentheses at the end of the quote.
| MLA Indented Quote Guidelines | Examples |
|---|---|
| Indentation | Five spaces from the left margin |
| Quotation marks | Not used |
| Introduction | Colon (:), comma (,), or no punctuation |
| Spacing | Double-spaced |
| Citation | Author's last name and page number in parentheses |
Examples of Indented Quotes in MLA Format
The following examples illustrate how to format indented quotes in MLA style:
According to John Smith, the impact of climate change on global food systems is a pressing concern:
The world’s population is projected to reach 9 billion by 2050, placing unprecedented demands on the global food system. As the planet warms, extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods, will become more frequent, leading to crop failures and decreased food security (Smith 23).
In this example, the indented quote is introduced with a colon, and the citation information, including the author’s last name and page number, is included in parentheses at the end of the quote.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When formatting indented quotes in MLA style, there are several common mistakes to avoid:
- Failure to indent the quote correctly
- Using quotation marks around the indented quote
- Not including the citation information
- Incorrectly formatting the introduction to the quote
What is the purpose of indented quotes in MLA format?
+Indented quotes, or block quotes, are used in MLA format to set off lengthy quotations from the rest of the text, making it easier to read and understand.
How do I format an indented quote in MLA style?
+To format an indented quote in MLA style, indent the quote five spaces from the left margin, do not use quotation marks, and include the citation information in parentheses at the end of the quote.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when formatting indented quotes in MLA style?
+Common mistakes to avoid include failure to indent the quote correctly, using quotation marks around the indented quote, not including the citation information, and incorrectly formatting the introduction to the quote.
