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In APA style, quotations that are 40 words or longer are called "block quotations" and have specific formatting rules.

Formatting Block Quotations

To format a block quotation in APA style:

  • Begin the block quotation on a new line.
  • Indent the entire block quotation 0.5 inches.
  • Double-space the entire block quotation.
  • Do not add quotation marks.
  • Include an in-text citation on the last line of the block quotation.
  • Add punctuation at the end of the block quotation before the citation.
  • Continue your paragraph after the block quotation on its own line, with no indentation.

Block Quotations Examples

Example 1

Today, digital cameras have practically taken over photography. As Johnson (2010) explained,

Digital cameras now make up 90% of all camera sales at the leading electronic stores. This increase in sales can be partially attributed to the widespread use of email and social networking, which has encouraged the sharing of digital photos. (p. 23)

Johnson further noted that, even more than with the shift to digital cameras, the increasing use of phones and iPods that have built-in cameras has replaced the use of film cameras.

Example 2

Computer users often disagree about which operating system is best: Mac or PC. Oyler (2010) stated that one operating system is not better than the other, but that one may be better suited for different purposes than the other. She explained by saying that Macs are often the best option for users who wish to work with video or picture manipulation.

Macs are also very user-friendly, which may benefit consumers who are new to computers. PCs, however, run Microsoft Office Suite the best. Therefore, students might find that a PC is their best option because it can run Microsoft Word and PowerPoint the smoothest. (Oyler, 2010, p. 48)

Conversely, Jones (2010) disagreed with the statement that Macs work with graphics such as video and pictures better than PCs, stating that PCs can be modified to work as well as Macs.

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Block Quotation
Tips

Follow a block quotation with analysis.

Any quotation you use as evidence should be followed by analysis in your own words as part of the same paragraph. No paragraph should end with a block quotation.


Use block quotations only when needed.

Block quotations can dominate your paper and overshadow your own voice. Instead, use smaller portions of sources and incorporate them into your writing. This method will help you establish your voice and show that you are engaging with the information rather than just reporting it.

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