Q. How do I format dialogue in APA?

Dialogue in APA is the same as direct quotations.

Dialogue, traditionally, refers to the words that come directly from a person’s mouth. In APA, however, the writer would use quotation marks and then a citation with the author's name, the publication date, and the page number of the source that was “speaking” that direct quotation:

According to Green (2013), “the evidence showed a strong correlation between those who wore high heels and those who later had lower back problems” (p. 14). 

When using a direct quotation in scholarly writing, be sure to consider the following three formatting pointers:

• Use quotation marks to show where the words that are not your own begin and end. See the Writing Center’s page on the use of quotation marks as punctuation.
• See more tips on how to use quotation marks as you cite your sources.
• Include author, year, and page number in your citation. See How do I cite in my text?
• Remember to use punctuation (a period or a comma) after the citation if it is required.

Additional Resources:

• See some tips on how and when to cite your sources.
• Learn more about how to use block quotations for quotes of 40 words or more.

Further Questions?

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