Block quotations can even appear as a separate paragraph (or a series of paragraphs). Block quotes are longer quotes that are separated from the surrounding text. Their format is the same as the surrounding text. What are they and what is their difference? Run-in quotations are usually shorter. There are two forms of direct quotations: run-in and block quotations. You can quote not only a person, but also a written source. So the important rule to remember is: “Quotation marks are used only with direct quotes”. Indirect quote: Alice said that she liked the snow. Time, ratio, business correspondence and references - these are other cases where a colon can be used.Įxamples: Direct quote: “I like the snow,” said Alice.