How to Use Evidence: The Difference Between Quoting and Paraphrasing
by Shitsukan (MA in Museum Studies, University of Leicester, Merit)
A common piece of advice in English academic writing is to "show, don't tell."
Simply writing that "museums are important" is merely an opinion. The rule of academic writing is to demonstrate "why they are important" using evidence.
Types of Evidence
There are three main types.
1. Direct Quotation
A method of citing the original text exactly as it is. Enclose it in double quotation marks and clearly state the source.
"Museums are no longer simply repositories of objects; they are spaces for social engagement and learning" (Black, 2005, p. 12).
2. Paraphrase
A method of rewriting the meaning of the original text in your own words. A citation is still required.
Black (2005) argues that the role of museums has shifted from object storage to active social and educational engagement.
3. Summary
A method of summarizing the main points of multiple studies or works.
When to use which
Use direct quotations only when the specific wording is important
In academic writing, overusing direct quotations is discouraged. Simply lining up quotes can be seen as not thinking in your own words.
Make paraphrasing your default
By putting things into your own words, you can demonstrate that you truly understand the content.
How to paraphrase
What you need to be careful about is that paraphrasing is not just 'changing words'.
NG Example (merely replacing words):
"Museums are spaces for social engagement and learning." → "Museums are places for social interaction and education."
This may constitute plagiarism.
OK Example (rewriting the entire structure):
"Social engagement and education, rather than object preservation, now define the purpose of the modern museum."
Always include an 'explanation' after a citation
Once you present evidence, always explain 'what this means' in your own words afterward.
How to write citations
Harvard Style: Author Name (Year) → (Black, 2005, p. 12)
APA Style: Author Name, Year, Page → Black (2005, p. 12)
MLA Style: Author Name and Page → (Black 12)
Summary
There are three types of evidence: 'direct quotes, paraphrasing, and summaries'
The standard is paraphrasing. Use direct quotes only when there is a special reason
Paraphrasing is not 'replacing words' but 'rewriting the entire structure'
Always include an explanation after presenting evidence
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Always clearly state the source. If you found this article helpful, clicking 'Like' would be encouraging.
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Author of this article: Shitsukan. MA in Museum Studies (Merit), University of Leicester.
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