Tips from the Writing Center: Quotations

When using quotations, it's important to follow specific punctuation rules to ensure clarity.

Use a comma to introduce a quotation after a standard dialogue tag, a brief introductory phrase or a dependent clause. Always place commas and periods within quotation marks, except when a parenthetical reference follows.

• The detective said, "I am sure who performed the murder."
• As D.H. Nachas explains, "The gestures used for greeting others differ greatly from one culture to another."
• He said, "I may forget your name, but I never forget a face."
• History is stained with blood spilled in the name of "civilization."
• Mullen, criticizing the apparent inaction, writes, "Donahue's policy was to do nothing" (24).

Colons and semicolons should be placed outside closed quotation marks.

• Williams described the experiment as "a definitive step forward"; other scientists disagreed.
• Benedetto emphasizes three elements of what she calls her "Olympic journey": family support, personal commitment and great coaching.

Lastly, place a question mark or exclamation point within closing quotation marks if the punctuation applies to the quotation itself, but outside if it applies to the whole sentence.

• Phillip asked, "Do you need this book?"
• Does Dr. Lim always say to her students, "You must work harder"?

- submitted by Brian Harrell, Writing Center specialist