The Modern Language Association (MLA) style is one of the most widely used citation formats in academic writing, particularly in the humanities. One of the most challenging aspects of MLA formatting is the block quote, which can be a nightmare for many students. A block quote is a direct quote that is five lines or more in length, and it requires a specific format to distinguish it from the rest of the text. In this article, we will discuss the five most common mistakes that students make when using MLA block quotes and provide tips on how to avoid them.
Understanding MLA Block Quote Format
To begin with, it is essential to understand the basic format of an MLA block quote. According to the MLA Handbook, a block quote should be indented one inch from the left margin, and the font should be the same as the rest of the text. The quote should be double-spaced, and the quotation marks should be omitted. The citation should be placed after the period at the end of the quote, and it should include the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the quote can be found.
Key Points
- Indent the block quote one inch from the left margin
- Use the same font as the rest of the text
- Double-space the quote
- Omit quotation marks
- Place the citation after the period at the end of the quote
Mistake 1: Incorrect Indentation
One of the most common mistakes that students make when using MLA block quotes is incorrect indentation. The block quote should be indented one inch from the left margin, which is typically five spaces. However, many students indent the quote too much or too little, which can affect the overall formatting of the paper. To avoid this mistake, make sure to use the indentation feature in your word processor, and set the indentation to one inch.
For example, the following block quote is correctly indented:
The MLA Handbook provides detailed guidelines for formatting a research paper. The handbook emphasizes the importance of consistency and clarity in formatting, and it provides examples of how to format different types of sources (MLA 23).
The citation at the end of the quote includes the author's last name (MLA) and the page number (23), which is the correct format for an MLA block quote.
Mistake 2: Inconsistent Font
Another common mistake that students make when using MLA block quotes is inconsistent font. The font of the block quote should be the same as the rest of the text, which is typically 12-point Times New Roman. However, many students use a different font or size for the block quote, which can affect the overall appearance of the paper. To avoid this mistake, make sure to use the same font and size for the block quote as the rest of the text.
For example, the following block quote uses a consistent font:
The importance of proper formatting cannot be overstated. A well-formatted paper can make a significant difference in the overall impression of the reader (Smith 12).
The font of the block quote is the same as the rest of the text, which is 12-point Times New Roman.
Mistake 3: Insufficient Double-Spacing
Insufficient double-spacing is another common mistake that students make when using MLA block quotes. The block quote should be double-spaced, which means that there should be a blank line between each line of text. However, many students do not double-space the block quote, which can affect the overall formatting of the paper. To avoid this mistake, make sure to double-space the block quote, and use the double-spacing feature in your word processor.
For example, the following block quote is double-spaced:
The MLA style is widely used in academic writing, particularly in the humanities. The style emphasizes the importance of consistency and clarity in formatting, and it provides examples of how to format different types of sources. The MLA Handbook provides detailed guidelines for formatting a research paper. The handbook emphasizes the importance of consistency and clarity in formatting, and it provides examples of how to format different types of sources (MLA 23).
The block quote is double-spaced, which means that there is a blank line between each line of text.
Mistake 4: Incorrect Citation
Incorrect citation is another common mistake that students make when using MLA block quotes. The citation should be placed after the period at the end of the quote, and it should include the author’s last name and the page number(s) where the quote can be found. However, many students place the citation in the wrong location or omit the page number(s), which can affect the overall formatting of the paper. To avoid this mistake, make sure to place the citation after the period at the end of the quote, and include the author’s last name and the page number(s).
For example, the following block quote has a correct citation:
The importance of proper formatting cannot be overstated. A well-formatted paper can make a significant difference in the overall impression of the reader (Smith 12).
The citation includes the author's last name (Smith) and the page number (12), which is the correct format for an MLA block quote.
Mistake 5: Omitting Quotation Marks
Omitting quotation marks is another common mistake that students make when using MLA block quotes. Since the block quote is a direct quote, it is essential to omit the quotation marks to distinguish it from the rest of the text. However, many students include the quotation marks, which can affect the overall formatting of the paper. To avoid this mistake, make sure to omit the quotation marks when using a block quote.
For example, the following block quote omits the quotation marks:
The MLA style is widely used in academic writing, particularly in the humanities. The style emphasizes the importance of consistency and clarity in formatting, and it provides examples of how to format different types of sources (MLA 23).
The block quote does not include quotation marks, which is the correct format for an MLA block quote.
Conclusion
In conclusion, MLA block quotes can be a nightmare for many students, but by understanding the basic format and avoiding the common mistakes, you can produce a well-formatted research paper that meets the MLA guidelines. Remember to indent the block quote one inch from the left margin, use the same font as the rest of the text, double-space the quote, omit quotation marks, and place the citation after the period at the end of the quote. By following these tips and using the correct formatting, you can ace your paper and achieve academic success.
What is the correct indentation for an MLA block quote?
+The correct indentation for an MLA block quote is one inch from the left margin, which is typically five spaces.
What is the correct font for an MLA block quote?
+The correct font for an MLA block quote is the same as the rest of the text, which is typically 12-point Times New Roman.
How do I cite an MLA block quote?
+To cite an MLA block quote, place the citation after the period at the end of the quote, and include the author's last name and the page number(s) where the quote can be found.
By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can avoid the common mistakes of MLA block quotes and produce a well-formatted research paper that meets the MLA guidelines. Remember to always consult the MLA Handbook for the most up-to-date guidelines and to seek help from your instructor or a writing tutor if you need additional assistance.