Writing from Sources: Paraphrasing vs. Quoting (VOCABULARY Flashcards)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms related to quoting, paraphrasing, and integrating sources in academic writing.

Quoting

Repeating the author’s exact words word-for-word, usually for short phrases or sentences, and enclosed in quotation marks with proper citation.

Paraphrasing

Restating the author’s ideas in your own words, typically for longer passages, while still citing the source.

ICE Method

Introduction, Cite, Explain — a three-step approach to embedding quotations with context and analysis.

Signal verb

A verb used to introduce a quotation that signals the source’s stance (e.g., argues, asserts, notes, claims).

Introduction (to a quotation)

Part of ICE that mentions the author, background, and a signal verb before the quotation.

Citation

Providing the source attribution in the required format after a quote or paraphrase so readers can locate the source.

Quotation marks

Punctuation used to enclose direct quotes and indicate exact words from the source.

Square brackets

Used to insert or modify words inside a quotation without changing the original wording (e.g., [midyear]).

Ellipses

Indicate omitted words from within a quotation (. . .).

Italics (emphasis)

Used to emphasize words within a quotation; if used, the writer should indicate that the emphasis is their own (e.g., [emphasis added]).

Emphasis added

A note that emphasizes words in a quotation are inserted by the writer (often shown as [emphasis added]).

Direct quotation

Another term for quoting; quoting the source exactly as written.

Misquoting

Quoting inaccurately or altering the meaning of a source, which can lead to plagiarism or misrepresentation.

Source text

The original passage from which a quotation or paraphrase is taken.

In-text citation

A concise citation placed within the text after a quote or paraphrase to identify the source.

When to Quote

Situations where the author’s exact words convey powerful meaning or are otherwise best presented verbatim.

When to Paraphrase

Situations where restating in your own words is clearer, or for longer passages that you want to elaborate on.

Preserve capitalization/punctuation

When quoting, keep the original capitalization and punctuation of the copied text.

Source use purpose

Determine why you are including external text to decide whether to paraphrase or quote.

Conjunction of quotes and paraphrase

Using both techniques in tandem—paraphrase after a quotation—to reinforce the author’s ideas with your own analysis.

Idea clarity

Explain the quotation with your own words to make the idea clear and connected to your argument.