Quotations That Contain Errors

A quotation that contains an error may be distracting, so consider paraphrasing instead. When quoting, always check your paper against the source to ensure that there are no discrepancies.

Except as noted under changes made to direct quotations, the quotation must match the wording, spelling, and interior punctuation of the original source, even if the source is incorrect.

If any incorrect spelling, punctuation, or grammar in the source might confuse readers, insert the word “[sic],” italicized and in brackets, immediately after the error in the quotation.

Nowak (2019) wrote that “people have an obligation to care for there [sic] pets” (p. 52).

Learn more

Quotations that contain errors are covered in the seventh edition APA Style manuals in the Publication Manual Section 8.29 and the Concise Guide Section 8.29

This guidance is the same as in the 6th edition.

From the APA Style blog

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Create a reference that matches the source where readers can retrieve the speech.

APA Style webinar on citing works in text

Attend the webinar, “Citing Works in Text Using Seventh Edition APA Style,” on July 14, 2020, to learn the keys to accurately and consistently citing sources in APA Style.
Last updated: August 2022Date created: 2020