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MLA Citation Guide (8th Edition): When a Work Is Quoted in Another Source

Tips

Works Quoted in Another Source

Sometimes an author of a book, article, or website will mention another person’s work by using a quotation or paraphrased idea from that source. (This may be called a secondary source.) For example, let's say you are reading a Kirkey article that includes a quotation by Smith that you would like to include in your essay.

  • If it is possible to retrieve the original source of the quotation (in this case, Smith), then verify the quote and cite the original source.
  • If you can't/don't access the original source, the basic rule is that in both your References list and in-text citation you will cite the source in which it is quoted (in this case, Kirkey). Do not list the original source if you have not read it.
    • You will add the words “qtd. in” to your in-text citation. Examples below.

Examples of in-text citations:

According to a study by Smith (qtd. in Kirkey) 42% of doctors would refuse to perform legal euthanasia.

Smith (qtd. in Kirkey) states that “even if euthanasia was legal, 42% of doctors would be against this method of assisted dying” (A.10).

Example of Reference list citation:

Kirkey, Susan. "Euthanasia." The Montreal Gazette, 9 Feb. 2013, p. A.10. Canadian Newsstand Major Dailies.