The ellipsis (...), those three little dots, can be a stylistic minefield, particularly when adhering to the strict guidelines of the American Psychological Association (APA) style guide. Misusing ellipses can undermine the clarity and accuracy of your academic writing. This guide will help you navigate the nuances of ellipsis usage within APA style, ensuring your work is both correct and impactful.
What is an Ellipsis in APA Style?
In APA style, an ellipsis indicates an omission of words or sentences within a quote. It's crucial to use it correctly to avoid misrepresenting the original source material. Incorrect use can lead to misinterpretations and even accusations of plagiarism.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some of the most common mistakes writers make when using ellipses in APA style:
1. Incorrect Spacing:
- Mistake: Using only two dots (...) or inconsistent spacing (e.g., ".. .").
- Correct Usage: Always use three dots (...) with a single space before and after the ellipsis when it's embedded within a sentence. If the omission occurs at the end of a sentence, use four dots (….), with the final dot representing the sentence's period.
2. Omitting Words at the Beginning of a Sentence:
- Mistake: Starting a quote with an ellipsis when no words have been omitted from the beginning of the original sentence.
- Correct Usage: Never begin a quote with an ellipsis unless words have been omitted from the start of the original sentence. If the quote begins with a complete sentence, start with the first word.
3. Omitting Crucial Information:
- Mistake: Using an ellipsis to remove words that alter the meaning or context of the original quote.
- Correct Usage: Only omit words that don't significantly change the meaning. If removing words changes the intended message, it's better to use the full quote or paraphrase instead.
4. Overusing Ellipses:
- Mistake: Using too many ellipses, leading to choppy or confusing text.
- Correct Usage: Use ellipses sparingly. If you are removing substantial portions of a quote, consider paraphrasing instead.
5. Failing to Use Brackets for Clarifications:
- Mistake: Altering the original quote without indicating the changes with brackets [ ].
- Correct Usage: If you need to clarify or add information within an ellipsis, use brackets to show the changes are not part of the original quote. For example: "The study concluded that... [the results were] statistically significant."
How to Use Ellipses Correctly in APA
1. Omitting Words Within a Sentence:
"The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog." If you omit "brown," it becomes: "The quick... fox jumps over the lazy dog."
2. Omitting Words at the End of a Sentence:
"The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. The sun is shining." To omit "The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.", you'd write: "...The sun is shining." (Note the four dots).
3. Omitting Words at the Beginning and End of a Sentence:
"...fox jumps over the lazy dog...The sun is shining brightly."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ellipses in my own writing, not just in quotations?
While less common, you can use ellipses in your own writing to create a dramatic pause or suggest an unfinished thought. However, use it sparingly and ensure it enhances readability rather than detracting from it.
What if the quote is already fragmented?
If the original quote already contains ellipses, maintain them. Do not add more unless you're making further omissions.
Are there alternatives to using ellipses?
Yes, consider paraphrasing or summarizing. If you're omitting a substantial amount of material, it's often clearer and more concise to paraphrase it.
By carefully following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately utilize ellipses in your APA-style writing, ensuring clarity, precision, and adherence to academic standards. Remember that correct ellipsis usage is crucial for maintaining the integrity and accuracy of your work.
