How do I use quotes within my answer?

The main points on how and when to use quotes are:

  1. Only include relevant quotes that support the overall argument. Do not just include random quotes to try and impress the examiner with your knowledge.

  2. Even using one worded quotes can be a powerful way of enhancing your argument. Just make sure that they are relevant to what you are saying.

  3. Examiners prefer shorter quotes to longer quotes. To narrow a long quote down, use 3 full stops e.g. '...'. This conveys that the quote has been condensed to the most important parts.

  4. The most important point! Analyse the quote and explain what effect this has on the reader, the atmosphere, the tone, other characters etc. Does the quote include a metaphor? Alliteration? If so, then what is the effect of the alliteration? 

Here is an example of some of the above:

When Oliver exclaims, he wants to ‘die in the fields and never come near London again’, the hysterical tone depicts the city as a threatening prospect.

RL
Answered by Rhiannon L. English tutor

2563 Views

See similar English GCSE tutors

Related English GCSE answers

All answers ▸

In 'The Flea' how does the poet present the speaker's attitudes towards relationships?


How can I revise for the unseen poetry part of the exam?


I keep losing marks on my essay answers because of how I use context. How can I fix this?


What do we learn about the relationship between Benedick and Beatrice from their opening interaction in 'Much Ado About Nothing'?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences