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Free Quote Formatter for Journalists

Format raw statements into clean AP-style or traditional editorial quotes. Enter speaker names and statements below.

Statement Details

AP News Style (Punctuation Inside)

Fill form and click "Format".

Standard Editorial (Attribution First)

Fill form and click "Format".

HTML Blockquote Format

Fill form and click "Format".

Attribution Rules for Quotations

How you attribute quotes impacts reader perception:

  • Stick to "Said": "Said" is virtually invisible to readers and carries no emotional bias. Verbs like "admitted" or "confessed" suggest guilt, violating objectivity.
  • Attribute Early: If a quote is long (more than two sentences), place the attribution at the end of the first sentence.
  • Keep Punctuation Uniform: Make sure commas and periods match the style sheet of your publication (e.g., inside quotation marks for AP style).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does quote punctuation differ between countries?

AP and American style place commas and periods inside quotation marks (e.g., 'said Mr. Singh,'). British and Commonwealth styles often place punctuation outside quotation marks.

Can I adjust a speaker's grammar in a quote?

You should not alter the meaning. However, removing filler words (like 'um' or 'ah') or inserting clarification words in square brackets (e.g., '[the budget] was approved') is standard journalistic practice.

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