Quotes are a journalist’s most powerful tool. Used well, they bring stories to life, add credibility, and let audiences hear directly from sources.
Used badly, they can clutter a story, confuse the reader, or undermine trust.
This checklist sets out why quotes matter, when to use them, and how to use them effectively and ethically in news writing. It’s based on the MHM training article ‘The power of quotes in journalism‘ which we suggest you read before using the checklist below.
How to use quotes in news
- [ ] Select key information: Identify the most important part of the information to use as a direct quote.
- [ ] Add human elements: Ensure the quote adds a human element or opinion that your own words cannot provide. See our article about ‘including the human angle in news.‘
- [ ] Maintain accuracy: Check that the quote is exactly what the person said without changing the meaning. See our article about ‘accuracy in journalism‘.
- [ ] Punctuate correctly: Use a full stop before you start a new sentence for the quote.
- [ ] Position the attribution: Place the attribution, such as ‘he said’ or ‘she said’, after the first sentence of the quote. See our article about ‘attribution in news‘.
- [ ] Separate facts: Keep your own reporting for the facts and use quotes for feelings or reactions.
- [ ] Avoid repetition: Avoid using long, boring quotes that repeat facts you have already mentioned.
- [ ] Create smooth transitions: Link your paragraphs together so the transition from your words to the quote flows.
- [ ] Identify the speaker: Verify that every quote is attributed to a specific person so the reader knows who is speaking.
- [ ] Provide perspectives: Use quotes to provide different points of view on a topic.
Using quotes correctly brings your stories to life and builds trust with your audience.
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