What is the difference between paraphrasing and quoting?
What is paraphrasing?
Paraphrasing is using an idea from a source, but not copying it word-for-word. Key parts for paraphrasing is,
- Your own writing, or phrasing, of important information that is in a source.
When you properly paraphrase, it shows that you have a strong understanding of the topic. It will also allow you to organize the information into your essay.
- Necessary when you borrow someone else’s ideas or content.
It is 100% necessary to either quote or paragraph any information taken from another person. It must also be cited!
- More detailed than a summary.
Summaries discuss the main ideas, not the specific evidence and information. You need specific information to properly argue your thesis.
Quotations
Quoting is an important tool to learn to supplement your writing. If you are going to quote a source, make sure that you are also explaining the importance of the quote and ensure that you copy the quote as exactly as possible (even the mistakes!).
Quotes,
- Show your arguments are supported by an authority.
It is necessary to support your points with evidence from a leader in the field (Master’s, PhD, or long-time professional). Quoting them will strengthen the credibility of your essay.
- Engagement of the reader.
Quotes can be used in the introductory sentence to increase reader engagement or set the tone of your writing.
- Provide further evidence on an argument.
Sometimes you need to quote data, tables, or numbers.
- Critique a counter argument.
Sometimes you might need to address counter arguments. It might be helpful to quote a source that addresses any counter arguments.
- Provide meaning if a passage cannot be paraphrased.
Sometimes, the wording of a passage is important and cannot be paraphrased or summarized. In these cases, you should quote the passage.