Incorporating Sources into your Writing

When writing, it is important to properly incorporate sources into the paragraph; otherwise, the sources (quotations, paraphrases, or summaries) appear as though they have been dropped into the writing.

In order to properly support a piece of evidence in the writing, the writer must introduce the evidence (by providing a lead-in), write in the piece of evidence (quotation, paraphrase, or summary) and explain the evidence in relation to the overall issues, arguments or ideas in the writing.

1. Lead-in:

• one quarter the length of the quotation, paraphrase, summary.
• explain source background or credibility.

2. Quotation/paraphrase/summary:

• make it as long as necessary.
• make sure you include the most essential elements.
• a quotation or paraphrase should only provide evidence or support your point, not make a point for you.

3. Explanation of quotation/paraphrase/summary:

• twice as long as the cited material.
• explanation must apply the source to the argument of the paper.

 For more guidance on incorporating sources, download the Integrating Research tip sheet.