Using ellipses correctly in APA style is crucial for accurate and ethical citation. An ellipsis (...) indicates the omission of words from a quoted passage. Misusing it can distort the original meaning and even lead to accusations of plagiarism. This guide provides a comprehensive understanding of APA ellipsis usage, empowering you to cite with confidence.
What is an Ellipsis in APA Style?
In APA style, an ellipsis (three spaced periods: ... ) signals the removal of words, phrases, or sentences from a direct quotation. It's essential to use them correctly to avoid misrepresenting the author's intent. Improper ellipsis use can alter the meaning of the original text, potentially leading to misinterpretations and ethical concerns.
When to Use Ellipses in APA Citations
Use ellipses only when omitting material from within a quotation. You don't need an ellipsis at the beginning or end of a quotation unless you are omitting material at the beginning or end of the sentence and it alters the meaning of the quoted text.
Example:
Original quote: "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog, and then it runs away."
- Correct: "...jumps over the lazy dog..." (Words omitted from the beginning and end.)
- Correct: "The quick brown fox ... runs away." (Words omitted from the middle.)
- Incorrect: "...The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." (Ellipsis is not needed at the beginning if no words are omitted)
Placement of Ellipses in APA Style
The placement of ellipses depends on where you're omitting material:
- Within a sentence: Use three spaced periods (...) to indicate omitted words within a sentence.
- Between sentences: If you omit a full sentence or more, use three spaced periods followed by a period (....). This signals the omission of complete sentences.
Specific Examples of Ellipsis Use in APA
Let's look at several scenarios to illustrate proper ellipsis usage:
Omitting words within a sentence:
Original quote: "Research suggests that regular exercise improves both physical and mental health, leading to a longer and healthier life."
Edited quote: "Research suggests that regular exercise ... leads to a longer and healthier life." (Words “improves both physical and mental health,” are omitted.)
Omitting sentences within a paragraph:
Original quote: "The study examined several factors. First, it considered the impact of diet. Second, it analyzed the role of physical activity. Finally, it investigated sleep patterns. The results were significant."
Edited quote: "The study examined several factors....The results were significant." (The sentences describing the specific factors are omitted.)
Omitting material at the beginning and end of a quote:
Original quote: “While this research is promising, further studies are needed to confirm the results. More research will be conducted in the coming years.”
Edited quote: "...further studies are needed to confirm the results...." (Omitting "While this research is promising" and "More research will be conducted in the coming years" requires ellipses at the beginning and end.)
Omitting material at the end of a quote:
Original quote: “The experiment showed a significant correlation between variable A and variable B, clearly demonstrating the predicted effect.”
Edited quote: “The experiment showed a significant correlation between variable A and variable B...” (Ellipses only needed at the end because only the conclusion is omitted.)
Frequently Asked Questions
How many spaces should be between the periods in an ellipsis?
There should be one space between each period in an ellipsis (...) in APA style.
Do I need to use brackets around an ellipsis?
No, you do not need to put brackets around an ellipsis in APA style unless you’re adding words to clarify the meaning of the quote, a separate rule covered in more detailed APA manuals.
What if I omit material from the beginning of a quote?
If you omit material from the beginning of a quote, you do not need an ellipsis unless the omission changes the meaning of the quote. If it does alter the meaning, then use an ellipsis to indicate the omission.
Can I use an ellipsis to shorten a long quote?
Yes, but only if the shortening doesn't change the original meaning of the passage. If there is a significant amount of material to be removed, consider summarizing the original text instead. Always prioritize maintaining the author's original intent.
Mastering ellipses requires practice and attention to detail. By following these guidelines, you can ensure accurate and ethical citation in your APA style papers. Remember, clarity and fidelity to the original source are paramount.
