English · Essay craft
Evidence & citation
Back it up with quotes.
Why use quotations?
When you write about a book or poem, quotations prove your point. They show the examiner you have read closely. A quotation is the exact words from the text, copied inside speech marks. Think of it as evidence in a courtroom – you need proof to support your argument.
How to embed a quotation
The smoothest way is to weave the quote into your own sentence. Start with your idea, then add the quote. For example: The author shows fear through the phrase "trembling hands and pounding heart". Always put quotation marks around the exact words you borrow.
Introducing quotations
You can introduce a quote with a colon or a signal phrase. A signal phrase is a short introduction like "the writer describes" or "the narrator reveals". For example: The writer describes the setting as "dark and unwelcoming". This makes your writing flow naturally.
Explaining your evidence
Never drop a quote and move on. Always explain what it shows or proves. Link it back to your main point. For instance: The phrase "icy silence" suggests tension between the characters. This step – called analysis – turns a quote into real evidence.
Common mistakes to avoid
Don't change the words inside quotation marks – copy them exactly. Don't forget to close your quotation marks. Avoid quoting huge chunks; pick short, powerful phrases instead. Finally, make sure every quote actually supports the point you are making.
Worked examples
1. Add a quotation to support this point: The character feels lonely.
- Find exact words in the text that show loneliness, such as "nobody to talk to".
- Embed the quote into a sentence: The character feels lonely, saying he has "nobody to talk to".
- Explain the evidence: This shows he is isolated and craves friendship.
2. Improve this sentence: The setting is spooky. It says it is dark and creepy.
- Turn the summary into an exact quotation from the text.
- Embed it smoothly: The setting is spooky, described as "pitch-black and filled with shadows".
- Add analysis: The word "pitch-black" emphasises the complete absence of light, creating fear.
3. Fix this quotation error: The author writes that the hero is "very brave and strong and never gives up ever."
- Check if those are the exact words from the text – this quote is too long and sounds paraphrased.
- Find a short, precise phrase instead, such as "unyielding courage".
- Rewrite: The author highlights the hero's "unyielding courage", showing his determination.
Try it yourself
Add a quotation to this sentence using the phrase 'thunder roared': The storm was frightening.
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