Quotes in Associated Press (AP) style adhere to specific guidelines to ensure clarity and accuracy in written communication. AP style dictates the usage of quotation marks, punctuation, and other formatting elements to accurately represent direct and indirect quotes. The choice of single or double quotation marks, the placement of commas and periods within quotes, and the use of ellipses to indicate omitted text are all essential aspects of AP style for quotes.
Quotations in AP Style
When incorporating quotations into your AP-style writing, it’s crucial to adhere to specific guidelines to ensure clarity and accuracy. Here’s a detailed explanation of the best structure for quotes:
Direct Quotations
1. One Sentence Quotes:
- Use quotation marks (” “) around the quotation.
- Place a period inside the quotation marks.
Example: “The truth will set you free.”
2. Multiple Sentence Quotes:
- Use quotation marks around the entire quotation.
- Indent the entire quote 10 spaces.
- Do not add a comma between the author and the quote.
- Place the period outside the quotation marks.
Example:
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
Indirect Quotations
- Do not use quotation marks.
- Use a comma after the author and before the quote.
- Introduce the quote with a reporting verb (e.g., said, stated, argued).
Example: Jane Doe stated that writing is “a solitary endeavor.”
Attribution
- Place the author’s name before the quotation.
- Use parentheses for additional information (e.g., date, source).
- For anonymous sources, use “an anonymous source” or “a source who wished to remain anonymous.”
Example: (John Smith, 2023)
Ellipses (…) and Brackets […]
- Use ellipses to indicate an omission.
- Use brackets to insert clarifying information.
Example: “The truth is […] elusive.”
Citations
- Always provide a citation for every quotation.
- Place the citation immediately after the closing quotation mark.
- Use a consistent citation style (e.g., MLA, APA).
Example: “Life is beautiful.” (John Smith, 2023, p. 5)
Table of Quotation Rules
| Quotation Type | Indentation | Period Placement | Attribution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct (1 sentence) | N/A | Within quotation marks | After quotation marks |
| Direct (multiple sentences) | 10 spaces | Outside quotation marks | Before quotation marks |
| Indirect | N/A | After author, before quote | After quote |
Question 1:
How are quotation marks used in Associated Press (AP) style?
Answer:
AP style prescribes the use of double quotation marks (” “) for direct quotes. If a quote contains another quote, single quotation marks (‘) should be used within the double quotation marks. Periods and commas are placed inside the quotation marks. Colons and semicolons are placed outside the quotation marks.
Question 2:
When should quotation marks not be used in AP style?
Answer:
Quotation marks are not used for indirect quotes, paraphrases, or material that is common knowledge. They are also not used for titles of works of art, literature, or music, or for names of organizations, institutions, or businesses.
Question 3:
What is the difference between a direct quote and an indirect quote?
Answer:
A direct quote is a verbatim repetition of a person’s exact words, enclosed in quotation marks. An indirect quote paraphrases or summarizes a person’s words, without using quotation marks.
Alright there, you quote-curious cat! Thanks for hanging out and geeking out on AP Style with me. I hope you’ve got a better handle on those tricky punctuation quandaries now. Feel free to drop by any time—I’ve got a treasure trove of language lore waiting just for you! Until next time, keep those wordsmithing skills sharp and those citations crisp.