A quote is when you use the exact language, word for word, from the original source.
Use quotations in your writing when:
you need to invoke the authority of your source
you want to preserve the qualities of the written language
the original material is so well phrased that a summary or paraphrase just won’t capture the ideas
Remember that you must give credit to the original source following the preferred style guide (e.g., APA, MLA, etc.) of your instructor and/or academic discipline.
In the example below, the writer uses her own words to introduce and give the necessary context so the reader understands the quote. The quote supports the writer’s ideas and gives it authority.