Writers should use quotations sparingly. If the whole paper is a series of quotations, how much did the student write?
Writers generally use short quotations in order to incorporate telling phrases or powerful language into their writing. Short quotations are documented parenthetically, often without drawing attention to the source (a notable exception is when quoting from a literary source for purposes of explication). Long quotations are always introduced by identifying the source in what is called a "running acknowlegement." The following might be reasons of voice for incorporating a long quotation:
- A student writer wants to take issue with what someone has said (The student quotes the source so that there is no question regarding how the student is disagreeing);
- The person is a recognized authority and makes an authoritative statement which the student wants to get on record;
- A student writer wants to reveal something about a person's character by revealing his or her thoughts in that person's own words; or
- The original source is written so powerfully and vividly, that any paraphrase would weaken its impact.
Be especially careful regarding that last reason given. Students often offer it as an excuse for quoting an idea or information that should not have been quoted.