Quoting sources accurately is crucial for academic integrity. Using ellipses correctly within APA style citations ensures you represent the original text fairly and avoids misrepresentation. This guide will clarify how to use ellipses in APA style, helping you navigate the complexities of quoting and paraphrasing.
What are Ellipses in APA Style?
In APA style, ellipses (three periods with spaces between each: . . . ) indicate the omission of words, phrases, or sentences from a direct quotation. They show that you've shortened the original quote for brevity or clarity, without altering its meaning. Using ellipses correctly is essential to avoid misrepresenting the author's intent. Incorrect use can lead to plagiarism or misinterpretations of the source material.
When to Use Ellipses in APA Citations
Ellipses are used to shorten quotations when:
- The omitted material is irrelevant: If a section of the quote doesn't contribute to your point, you can remove it using ellipses.
- The quote is too long: Long, unwieldy quotes can disrupt the flow of your writing. Ellipses allow you to present only the essential parts.
- Clarity and Conciseness: Sometimes, removing unnecessary words improves the quote's readability within your paper.
How to Use Ellipses Correctly in APA Style
There are specific rules to follow when using ellipses in APA style:
- Three periods with spaces: Always use three periods (. . .), each with a space before and after. Do not use an ellipsis without spaces.
- Beginning of a quote: If you omit material from the beginning of a quote, you don't need to use an ellipsis. The quote simply starts where you begin.
- Middle of a quote: Use an ellipsis (. . . ) to show the omission of words or sentences within a quote.
- End of a quote: If you omit material from the end of a quote, use an ellipsis followed by the closing quotation marks, then your citation.
- Omitting a full sentence: When omitting a whole sentence, it's best to include the ending punctuation of the previous sentence followed by the ellipsis, followed by the start of the next sentence. This ensures clarity and context.
Examples of Correct Ellipses Usage in APA
Example 1 (Omitting from the middle):
Original Quote: "The study showed significant results, indicating a positive correlation between exercise and mood, although further research is needed to confirm these findings. The participants were generally satisfied with the program."
APA Quote: "The study showed significant results, indicating a positive correlation between exercise and mood. . . The participants were generally satisfied with the program" (Smith, 2023, p. 12).
Example 2 (Omitting from the beginning and end):
Original Quote: "Preliminary research suggests a link between diet and cognitive function. However, more investigation is required to determine the causal relationship and understand the complexities involved. This area requires further study."
APA Quote: ". . . more investigation is required to determine the causal relationship. . ." (Jones, 2022, p. 25).
What if I need to add brackets?
Sometimes, when omitting words, you might need to add clarifying words or phrases to ensure that the quote’s meaning is not altered. In these cases, use brackets [ ] around the added words.
Avoiding Misrepresentation with Ellipses
Always ensure that using ellipses doesn't change the original meaning of the quote. If removing sections alters the intended meaning, it's better to paraphrase or quote the entire passage. Your goal should be to accurately and fairly represent the author's work.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using too many ellipses: Overuse can make the quote choppy and difficult to read.
- Using ellipses incorrectly: Remembering the spacing rules is crucial for correct formatting.
- Misrepresenting the author: Always ensure that the edited quote accurately reflects the original meaning.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently and correctly use ellipses in your APA-style writing, ensuring accurate and ethical representation of your sources. Remember to always prioritize clear communication and maintaining the integrity of the original text.
