The Correct Way to Format a Block Quote in MLA Style

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 109 views

Formatting Block Quotes in MLA Style: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to citing sources in academic writing, the Modern Language Association (MLA) style is one of the most widely used formats. One of the key aspects of MLA style is the proper formatting of block quotes, which can be a bit tricky to get right. In this article, we will explore the correct way to format block quotes in MLA style, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this often-confusing topic.

What is a Block Quote?

A block quote is a long quotation that is set apart from the rest of the text by indenting it one inch from the left margin. Block quotes are typically used to quote passages that are three lines or more in length, and are an essential part of academic writing.

The Correct Way to Format a Block Quote in MLA Style

According to the MLA Handbook, the correct way to format a block quote in MLA style is to indent the entire quote one inch from the left margin, omit quotation marks, and place the citation at the end of the quote. This is in contrast to the common misconception that block quotes should be indented and placed within quotation marks.

Why Omit Quotation Marks?

One of the key reasons why quotation marks are omitted in block quotes is to distinguish them from shorter quotations that are set within quotation marks. By omitting quotation marks, block quotes are clearly set apart from the rest of the text, and are easily distinguishable from shorter quotations.

How to Indent a Block Quote

To indent a block quote, you should use a tab or a series of spaces to create a one-inch indentation from the left margin. This indentation should be consistent throughout the block quote, and should not be broken up by lines of text.

Where to Place the Citation

The citation for a block quote should be placed at the end of the quote, and should include the author's last name, page number(s), and any other relevant information. For example:

"The road not taken by Robert Frost is a classic example of a block quote in MLA style. The poem's themes of choice and regret are still widely discussed today (Frost 1-2)."

In this example, the citation is placed at the end of the block quote, and includes the author's last name, page number(s), and any other relevant information.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When formatting block quotes in MLA style, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:

Using quotation marks within a block quote
Indenting only the first line of a block quote
Placing the citation at the beginning of the block quote
Failing to indent the block quote one inch from the left margin

Conclusion

Formatting block quotes in MLA style can be a bit tricky, but by following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your block quotes are properly formatted and accurately cited. Remember to indent the entire quote one inch from the left margin, omit quotation marks, and place the citation at the end of the quote. By following these simple steps, you can create clear and concise block quotes that enhance the readability of your academic writing.

Additional Resources

For more information on formatting block quotes in MLA style, consult the MLA Handbook or the MLA website. Additionally, you can find many online resources and tutorials that provide step-by-step instructions on how to format block quotes in MLA style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a block quote and a shorter quotation? A: A block quote is a long quotation that is set apart from the rest of the text by indenting it one inch from the left margin, while a shorter quotation is set within quotation marks.

Q: Why do I need to omit quotation marks in a block quote? A: Quotation marks are omitted in block quotes to distinguish them from shorter quotations that are set within quotation marks.

Q: How do I indent a block quote? A: To indent a block quote, use a tab or a series of spaces to create a one-inch indentation from the left margin.

Q: Where do I place the citation for a block quote? A: The citation for a block quote should be placed at the end of the quote, and should include the author's last name, page number(s), and any other relevant information.
Frequently Asked Questions: Formatting Block Quotes in MLA Style

When it comes to formatting block quotes in MLA style, there are many questions that arise. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about formatting block quotes in MLA style.

Q: What is the difference between a block quote and a shorter quotation?

A: A block quote is a long quotation that is set apart from the rest of the text by indenting it one inch from the left margin, while a shorter quotation is set within quotation marks. Block quotes are typically used to quote passages that are three lines or more in length.

Q: Why do I need to omit quotation marks in a block quote?

A: Quotation marks are omitted in block quotes to distinguish them from shorter quotations that are set within quotation marks. By omitting quotation marks, block quotes are clearly set apart from the rest of the text, and are easily distinguishable from shorter quotations.

Q: How do I indent a block quote?

A: To indent a block quote, use a tab or a series of spaces to create a one-inch indentation from the left margin. This indentation should be consistent throughout the block quote, and should not be broken up by lines of text.

Q: Where do I place the citation for a block quote?

A: The citation for a block quote should be placed at the end of the quote, and should include the author's last name, page number(s), and any other relevant information.

Q: Can I use a block quote in a MLA-style paper if the original text is not in a formal publication?

A: Yes, you can use a block quote in a MLA-style paper even if the original text is not in a formal publication. However, you should still provide a citation for the source, and include any relevant information about the source, such as the author's name, title of the work, and publication date.

Q: How long does a block quote need to be to be considered a block quote?

A: A block quote is typically considered to be a block quote if it is three lines or more in length. However, the length of a block quote can vary depending on the context and the purpose of the quote.

Q: Can I use a block quote in a MLA-style paper if the original text is in a formal publication?

A: Yes, you can use a block quote in a MLA-style paper even if the original text is in a formal publication. However, you should still provide a citation for the source, and include any relevant information about the source, such as the author's name, title of the work, and publication date.

Q: How do I format a block quote that includes multiple paragraphs?

A: To format a block quote that includes multiple paragraphs, you should indent each paragraph one inch from the left margin, and use a blank line to separate each paragraph. You should also include a citation at the end of the block quote, and include any relevant information about the source.

Q: Can I use a block quote in a MLA-style paper if the original text is in a digital format?

A: Yes, you can use a block quote in a MLA-style paper even if the original text is in a digital format. However, you should still provide a citation for the source, and include any relevant information about the source, such as the author's name, title of the work, and publication date.

Q: How do I format a block quote that includes a title or heading?

A: To format a block quote that includes a title or heading, you should indent the title or heading one inch from the left margin, and use a blank line to separate it from the rest of the text. You should also include a citation at the end of the block quote, and include any relevant information about the source.

Conclusion

Additional Resources

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When formatting block quotes in MLA style, there are several common mistakes to avoid. These include:

Using quotation marks within a block quote
Indenting only the first line of a block quote
Placing the citation at the beginning of the block quote
Failing to indent the block quote one inch from the left margin

Tips for Formatting Block Quotes

Use a consistent indentation throughout the block quote
Omit quotation marks to distinguish the block quote from shorter quotations
Place the citation at the end of the block quote
Use a blank line to separate each paragraph in a block quote that includes multiple paragraphs

Conclusion

Formatting block quotes in MLA style is an essential part of academic writing. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your block quotes are properly formatted and accurately cited. Remember to indent the entire quote one inch from the left margin, omit quotation marks, and place the citation at the end of the quote. By following these simple steps, you can create clear and concise block quotes that enhance the readability of your academic writing.