Answered By: Alan Witt
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2023     Views: 25

First, check which citation style you are using. Different styles have different preferences for integrating sources.
 
There are three main ways of integrating a source into your paper: quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing. All three require citation. 
  • Quoting allows you to use the exact words of the source. For larger portions of text, some citation styles have you use block quotation, which sets the quotation apart from the rest of the paragraph.
  • Paraphrasing allows you to explain the content of a portion of the source using your own words. This is usually used if you want to communicate the ideas in a paragraph or page but don't need the exact wording.
  • Summarizing allows you to explain the main idea of the source using your own words.This is usually used to communicate the thrust of an entire article or book chapter.
The Owl at Purdue has more information on this topic.