Using ellipses correctly in APA style can feel tricky, but mastering this punctuation mark is essential for accurately representing source material in your writing. This guide breaks down the rules in a concise, easy-to-understand way, ensuring you're ready to confidently navigate ellipses in your next APA paper.
What is an Ellipsis in APA Style?
An ellipsis (...) is a set of three dots used to indicate the omission of words, sentences, or paragraphs within a direct quotation. It's crucial for accurately representing the original source while condensing information to fit your narrative. Incorrect use can misrepresent the author's meaning and even lead to plagiarism accusations.
Basic Rules of APA Ellipsis Usage
-
Omitting Words Within a Sentence: When omitting words from within a sentence, use three spaced ellipsis points (...) to show the deletion.
- Example: Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." Edited quote: "The quick brown...lazy dog."
-
Omitting Words Between Sentences: When omitting material between two complete sentences, use four spaced periods (….)—three ellipsis points plus a period to represent the end of the previous sentence.
- Example: Original quote: "The sun is shining. The birds are singing." Edited quote: "The sun is shining….The birds are singing."
-
Omitting Material at the Beginning or End of a Quote: If you omit material from the beginning of a quote, you don't need to add ellipsis points at the start. Similarly, if you omit material from the end, you don't need ellipsis points at the end, unless it's part of an incomplete sentence.
-
Example: Original quote: "The beginning is the most important part. The middle is also important, and the end." Edited quote: "The middle is also important, and the end."
-
Example (incomplete sentence): Original quote: "The beginning is the most important part..." Edited quote: "...the most important part."
-
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about APA Ellipsis
How do I use brackets with ellipses in APA?
Brackets [ ] are used around an added word or phrase within a quotation to clarify its meaning, even if it involves omitting words. The ellipsis is still used to indicate omission.
* **Example:** Original quote: "He said it was a good day." Edited quote: "He said it was a [really] good day...."
When should I avoid using ellipses?
Avoid using ellipses if the omission changes the meaning of the quotation or makes it unclear. If a significant portion needs to be omitted, it’s better to paraphrase rather than use multiple ellipses.
Are there specific situations where ellipses are inappropriate in APA?
Yes. Ellipses should not be used to create a dramatic effect or to deliberately obscure the original meaning of a quote. Maintain the integrity of the source material.
Can I use ellipses in titles or headings?
No, avoid using ellipses in titles or headings of your work. Maintain clarity and conciseness.
What if I'm quoting a quote that already contains an ellipsis?
Use the original ellipsis points if it is a part of the original quote. If additional omissions are needed, use your own ellipsis points. This adds a layer of complexity, but consistency is key. Ensure that it is clear to the reader that the ellipsis is part of the original source and not your addition.
Where can I find more information on APA style guidelines?
The official Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association is the ultimate resource for comprehensive APA style guidance.
By understanding these rules and addressing the common questions surrounding APA ellipsis usage, you can confidently and accurately incorporate quotations into your academic work, showing both proficiency and respect for the original authors.
