The APA 7th edition style guide provides specific rules for using ellipses, those three little dots (...) that signal omitted words within a quote. Mastering these rules is crucial for maintaining academic integrity and clarity in your writing. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using ellipsis in APA 7th edition, ensuring your citations are accurate and your writing is polished. We'll cover the basics and delve into more nuanced scenarios to solidify your understanding.
What is an Ellipsis and Why Use It in APA?
An ellipsis (...) represents omitted words or sentences within a direct quote. In APA style, it's essential for accurately representing source material while condensing lengthy quotes to fit your paper's context. Using ellipses correctly avoids misrepresentation and maintains the original author's intended meaning. Overuse, however, can disrupt the flow and clarity of your writing. The key is to use them judiciously.
Basic Rules for Using Ellipsis in APA 7th Edition
The fundamental rule is simple: use three dots (...) to indicate omitted material within a sentence. If the omitted material includes the end of a sentence, you add a fourth dot (....) to represent the period.
Example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. The dog sleeps soundly."
Quote with ellipsis: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.... The dog sleeps soundly." (The ellipsis represents the omitted period).
Important Considerations:
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Omitting material at the beginning of a quote: You do not use an ellipsis at the beginning of a quote unless you're omitting material from the beginning of the original sentence.
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Omitting material in the middle of a quote: Use three dots (...) to indicate the omission of words or phrases within a sentence.
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Omitting material at the end of a quote: Use three dots if the omission occurs before the end of the sentence. Use four dots (....) if the omission occurs at the end of the sentence, including the period.
Using Ellipsis with Brackets
Sometimes, you might need to add clarifying words or phrases within an ellipsis to ensure context. In such cases, enclose your additions within square brackets [ ].
Example:
Original quote: "The experiment was successful, though challenging."
Modified quote: "The experiment was successful... [the researchers concluded] though challenging."
This clarifies the omission and maintains the accuracy of the quote without altering its original meaning.
How to Use Ellipsis with Block Quotes
Block quotes (quotes longer than 40 words) follow slightly different rules. If you omit material from the beginning, middle, or end of a block quote, you still use ellipses as described above. However, the ellipses should be placed within the block quote itself and there is no need for a separate ellipsis at the end of the block quote.
Example:
Original block quote:
"The experiment was carefully designed. Many factors were considered, including temperature, humidity and light levels. Data were collected regularly. The results were striking."
Modified block quote:
"...Many factors were considered, including temperature, humidity, and light levels. Data were collected regularly. The results were striking."
Frequently Asked Questions (PAA)
What if I need to omit multiple sentences?
If omitting entire sentences, use a period and three dots (...) to indicate each sentence omitted. Maintain the original meaning of the quote while condensing the text.
Can I use ellipses to shorten a quote significantly?
While you can use ellipses to shorten a quote, avoid excessive use that distorts the author's original meaning. Ensure the remaining text retains the original essence and message. Use your best judgement and be ethical.
Should I use ellipses at the beginning of a quote?
Only if the original quote began with a complete sentence and you're omitting the beginning portion of that sentence. Otherwise, begin the quote where it is relevant to your current work.
What if the original text already includes an ellipsis?
Maintain the original author’s ellipses. If you need to add your own, add it as described in the previous rules, respecting the original punctuation and intent.
Are there any situations where ellipses are not needed?
If you're quoting a complete sentence or a short phrase without omissions, there's no need for ellipses.
This guide offers a comprehensive overview of using ellipses in APA 7th edition. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure the accuracy and clarity of your academic writing. Remember, the goal is to represent the source material faithfully while effectively integrating it into your work.
