Using ellipses correctly in your research papers is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and presenting your sources accurately. Misusing ellipses can distort the meaning of original text and damage your credibility. This comprehensive guide will illuminate the proper application of ellipses according to APA style, ensuring your research shines with precision and accuracy.
What are Ellipses and Why Use Them in APA Style?
Ellipses (...) are three equally spaced dots used to indicate an omission of words, phrases, or sentences from a direct quotation. They signal to the reader that you've shortened the original text for brevity or to focus on the most relevant information. In APA style, ellipses are essential for ethically and accurately representing source material. Using them incorrectly can lead to misrepresentation and plagiarism.
How to Use Ellipses Correctly in APA Style
The rules governing ellipses in APA style are precise:
- Omitting words within a sentence: Use three dots to indicate the omission. For example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog."
Quoted with omission: "The quick brown fox...jumps over the lazy dog."
- Omitting the end of a sentence: Use three dots followed by a period (four dots total). This indicates the omission of the end of a sentence and the beginning of a new sentence in your quote. For example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. The dog then chases the fox."
Quoted with omission: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog....The dog then chases the fox."
- Omitting multiple sentences: Use three dots followed by a period to indicate the end of the omitted sentence(s), and then continue with your quote. Repeat this pattern for every omitted sentence. For example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. The dog is very lazy. The fox is very quick."
Quoted with omission: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog....The fox is very quick."
- Omitting material at the beginning of a sentence: If you omit material from the beginning of the quoted sentence, you should use ellipses without a space before the first word of your quote. This signals that the beginning of the original sentence is not included. For example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. The dog is very lazy."
Quoted with omission: "...The dog is very lazy."
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Never use ellipses to indicate the omission of material at the beginning and end of a quotation. Keep your quotations as complete as possible to avoid misrepresentation. If significant parts are missing, summarize instead of quoting directly.
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Bracketed information: If you need to add or clarify information within an ellipsis, use bracketed information ([…]) to maintain context and clarity. For example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox [quickly] jumps over the lazy dog."
Quoted with addition: "The quick brown fox...jumps over the lazy dog."
Frequently Asked Questions about APA Ellipses
What if I need to omit the beginning and end of a quote?
If you must significantly shorten the original text, summarizing may be a better option than using ellipses. Quoting extensively with numerous omissions can create confusion and misrepresent the original work's meaning.
Can I use ellipses to shorten a quote within a sentence?
Yes. Three dots within the quote show omission from the original text. Remember to maintain the original author's meaning.
Do I need to add any extra spacing around the ellipses?
No, extra spacing is not required. Simply use three dots (…) or three dots and a period (....) according to the rules outlined above.
Are there any instances where I should avoid using ellipses?
Avoid ellipses if your quote is already short. Using them unnecessarily can disrupt the flow and clarity of your writing. Also, avoid using them to distort or misrepresent the original text's meaning.
Conclusion: Mastering APA Ellipses for Accurate Quotation
Proper use of ellipses is an essential skill for all academic writers. By following these guidelines, you ensure the accuracy and integrity of your research, bolstering your credibility and enhancing the overall quality of your work. Remember, accurate quotation is a cornerstone of academic honesty and effective scholarly communication.
