How to Use Direct and Indirect Quotes

Are confused about how to use direct and indirect quotes? This article will clear things up for you.

In writing, there are two types of quotations.

The first, probably the one that you know of, is the direct quote.

How To Use Direct Quotes

The direct quote is the exact words/sentence that someone says. It is also the one where you use quotations marks to open and close.

So if you were to repeat something that your coach said, for instance, and you use his/her exact words, then this would be a direct quote.

Example: “I want to play video games all day today,” Bruce said.
Or: The great martial artist Bruce Lee instructs us to “be like water making its way through cracks.”

The indirect quote, on the other hand, is a summary of what other people say; it isn’t the exact words or sentences.

Rather, it is just a paraphrased version of what was said.

Example: At school, Theo told me that he wanted to play video games all day.
Or: Bruce Lee believes that we are our best selves when we are flexible like water.

Understand everything so far? Good, let’s keep it going.

So here’s a quick recap (plus some additional stuff) of everything on quotations:

Always use quotation marks to open and close quotations. Additionally, if you are going to continue the sentence after the quote is over, you need to place a comma in front of the closing quotation mark. This rule applies to periods (or any closing punctuation) as well.
If the direct quote is offset by a phrase or clause, there needs to be a comma in front of the opening quotation mark. Ex: At the restaurant, Bruce said, “I want a hot cup of coffee.” (Pay attention to the punctuation above.)
Indirect quotes do not need any quotation marks because it is not the exact thing that is said.

Knowing how to use the right kind of quotation is really important. You’ll need to know how when you write a news article or an essay.

So, study them and try to master them.