When quoting a long quote in APA style, it is essential to follow the guidelines set forth by the American Psychological Association. According to the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (7th ed.), a long quote is defined as a quotation that exceeds 40 words. In such cases, the quote should be presented in a block quote format, which is indented 0.5 inches from the left margin and double-spaced.
Block Quote Formatting
To format a long quote in APA style, start by introducing the quote with a signal phrase, followed by a colon. Then, indent the entire quote 0.5 inches from the left margin and double-space the text. It is crucial to maintain the original wording, punctuation, and capitalization of the quote. If the quote contains multiple paragraphs, indent the first line of each paragraph an additional 0.5 inches.
Example of a Block Quote
The following example illustrates how to format a long quote in APA style:
According to Smith (2020), the impact of climate change on global food systems is a pressing concern: The consequences of climate change on food security are far-reaching and multifaceted. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather events can lead to crop failures, reduced yields, and decreased quality of agricultural products. Furthermore, climate change can alter the distribution and prevalence of crop and animal pests, diseases, and weeds, which can further exacerbate the negative impacts on food production and availability.
In this example, the quote is introduced with a signal phrase, followed by a colon. The quote is then indented 0.5 inches from the left margin and double-spaced. The original wording, punctuation, and capitalization of the quote are maintained.
| APA Style Guideline | Description |
|---|---|
| Block quote formatting | Indent 0.5 inches from the left margin, double-spaced |
| Introduction to the quote | Signal phrase followed by a colon |
| Quote length | Exceeds 40 words |
In conclusion, quoting a long quote in APA style requires attention to detail and adherence to the guidelines set forth by the American Psychological Association. By following these guidelines, writers can ensure that their quotes are accurately formatted and properly integrated into their text.
What is the definition of a long quote in APA style?
+A long quote in APA style is defined as a quotation that exceeds 40 words.
How should a long quote be formatted in APA style?
+A long quote should be presented in a block quote format, indented 0.5 inches from the left margin and double-spaced.
What should be maintained when quoting a long quote in APA style?
+The original wording, punctuation, and capitalization of the quote should be maintained.
