FAQs
Referencing
DIRECT QUOTATIONS
Important: different departments have different rules – always check your department’s
handbook.
Q
Do I need a page number for a direct (word-for-word) quotation?
A
Yes, but if there isn’t one, use n.p. for no page, thus: (Smith 2010 : n.p.)
Q
Can I use italics for quotations?
A
No, it is better not to do this since italics are normally reserved to show foreign words and
phrases. Use double inverted commas to show the beginning and end of a quotation which
runs along with your text.
Q
Can I change the wording of a quotation?
A
Yes, as long as it is not too drastic. Just make your alteration clear by using […] for omitted
text or, for example, “ [The President] has indicated that…”
Q
I’ve reduced, simplified or altered a published table of figures in my assignment. How do I
reference this?
A
Under the table, write: Adapted from [followed by a short reference, full details of which
will appear in the reference list, and the page number]
Q
Are quotations part of the word count?
A
Yes, but the reference list at the end is not.
Q
How do I set out longer quotations?
A
The usual convention is to give the quotation its own indented paragraph, single spaced,
with a line space before and after, but with no quotation marks (see below). Try not to use
too many long quotations.
Q
So, do I use double inverted commas for a longer quotation which is set out in its own
indented paragraph in my work?
A
There is no need to, here, since the indented paragraph makes it quite clear where the
quotation starts and ends and the convention is not to insert any. Be aware, however, that
plagiarism detector software (such as Turnitin) may mindlessly interpret this as your words
and flag up ‘plagiarism’, in which case you can of course happily ignore any such warnings.
Ah, the wonders of modern technology, which is supposed to make things easier for us…
Q
How do I reference a direct quotation from the transcript of an interview I conducted, a
conversation I had or an e-mail I received?
A
First, it is assumed the quotation is by someone who is in some way an authority on the
subject or who is entitled to a view on it. If so, quote as above, make the in-text reference
(Smith 2009) but reference it thus in the reference list: Smith 2009 personal communication
(date).
Q
How do I reference a quotation from lecture notes or a presentation?
A
Give the author as usual (the lecturer in this case), followed by the year and, in the
reference list this plus the title of the lecture, the place and the date.
Q
How do I reference conference proceedings?
A
These are normally published as books, usually with an editor. Treat an individual
conference paper included in a set of proceedings like a chapter within a book consisting of
contributions by several authors. Treat a complete set of conference proceedings like a book
with an editor. If it has been published as a periodical article, reference it like any other
journal article.