The rule for block quotes depends on formatting style. When using APA, block quotes are used when the content is more than 40 words. MLA requires the use of a block quote if the content is more than four lines of prose or three or more lines of verse in a poem. For both APA and MLA, block quote are double spaced and indented. If using Chicago, block quotations are used if the prose is five or more lines. Block quotes in Chicago are also indented, but they are single spaced. When formatting a paper with CSE, the block quote is used for passages of five or more line. They are double spaced and indented.
If you require further assistance or have other questions about the proper way to quote something in a paper, please see a Reference Librarian for help or check the library for available books and resources on specific formatting guidelines.
