Ace Your 2026 Law Enforcement Report Writing Test – Write Your Way to Success!

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What is the difference between paraphrase and quotation, and when should you use each?

Paraphrase conveys meaning in your own words; quotation copies exact words; use quotes for precision, paraphrase to maintain flow and conciseness.

Paraphrase means restating what a source says in your own words while keeping the original meaning, whereas a quotation uses the exact words from the source, typically shown with quotation marks.

Use quotes when the precise language matters—such as a policy, statute, official directive, or a witness statement where the exact wording could influence interpretation or credibility. Use paraphrase to convey the same idea more succinctly, to fit the flow of your report, or to integrate information with your analysis without long blocks of text.

Regardless of which you choose, always cite the source. Short quotes can be used for emphasis; longer quotes are usually paraphrased or formatted as a block quote according to your style guide.

Paraphrase copies exact words; quotation rewrites in your own words; use quotes to shorten text.

Paraphrase involves translating into a different language; quotation keeps the original language; use quotations for literal meaning.

Paraphrase requires no citation; quotation requires a citation.

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