What is a Direct Quote?

A direct quote is where one copies a sentence from the original text word for word to support or answer a question. These are written with quotation marks and a citation of where to find it in the text.

What is Paraphrasing?

Paraphrasing is putting information that you read or hear in your own words. Paraphrases include all the same information as the original text, including smaller details, so they are just as long as the original.

Why is paraphrasing important?

• First, it shows that you understand the material you just read or heard. If you can’t paraphrase a text, you probably didn’t really understand it.

• Second, it makes information easier to remember later.

• Third, it’s helpful when you want to include the information you read in your own essay or research paper.

Strategies

• There are some strategies that can help you prepare to paraphrase.

• While you’re reading a text, think about the main idea and supporting details.

• Read the text more than once if you need to.

• Take notes in a graphic organizer to get your information straight.

• Finally, look up any unfamiliar words in a dictionary or thesaurus to make sure you really understand what the text is saying.

When You Are Ready...

When you are ready to paraphrase, close the book or computer and write down all the information you just read in your own words. Closing the book or computer ensures you won’t be able to copy the text. Then open the book and make sure you included all the important information without copying specific words or phrases.

The four R's

• While you paraphrase, keep the four Rs in mind. First, reword: replace words and phrases with synonyms whenever you can. Then, rearrange: move words and phrases around to make new sentences. It is important to change the structure of your sentences so they’re different from those in the original text.

The Four R's....

• Next, realize that some details, like names and dates, cannot be changed—but you can present them differently in your paraphrase.

• Finally, recheck: make sure that your paraphrase delivers the same meaning or message as the original text.