What are signal phrases and how do I use them in citations?

Answer

A signal phrase is a set of words that introduces a quote or paraphrase. It includes the author's last name along with a "signal" term that means "stated." Signal phrases are an important part of narrative citations. A narrative citation is a citation where the author's name is incorporated into the text as part of the sentence, with the year following in parentheses."

The basic elements of a narrative citation are:

  • The author's last name
  • The year of publication in (brackets) following the author's name
  • A signal phrase that indicates the author is speaking
  • For direct quotes, the page or paragraph number in (brackets) following the quote

Example - paraphrasing:

Kenney (2020) indicated that while outcomes similar to Italy and Spain are still possible, Alberta has done a relatively good job at containing the virus.

Example - direct quote:

Visser (2011) acknowledged that "it would be misleading to suggest that philanthropy emerged purely as a Western Tradition" (p. 62).

Examples of possible verbs that can be used in signal phrases:

  • Acknowledged
  • Addressed
  • Argued
  • Asserted
  • Assumed
  • Claimed
  • Commented
  • Compared
  • Concluded
  • Confirmed
  • Contradicted
  • Declared
  • Denied
  • Discussed
  • Disputed
  • Emphasized
  • Explained
  • Insisted
  • Noted
  • Observed
  • Reasoned
  • Refuted
  • Rejected
  • Reported
  • Stated
  • Suggested
  • Showed
  • Stressed

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  • Last Updated Jan 04, 2022
  • Views 2512
  • Answered By Ethan Allard

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