If you have decided you have a good reason to use a quotation (see "When to Quote" in this Guide), make sure you are not dropping "quote bombs." A quote bomb is a quotation dropped as a complete, freestanding sentence into your writing. 

Your words your words your words. "QUOTE BOMB!" Your words your words.

Instead, frame your quotation by integrating it into your own words at the beginning, end, or both ends of the sentence. It is your job to usher your reader into and out of a quotation.

Entering the Quotation

Use a strong verb such as explains, supports, counters, or responds to indicate how the quotation fits into your argument rather than a weak verb such as states or says.

Integration with weak verb: Author x says, "quote quote quote."

Integration with strong verb: Author x supports this position by explaining "quote, quote, quote."

Exiting the Quotation

Do not leave it up to your reader to interpret a quotation. It is part of your job as the writer to integrate the quotation into your argument by explaining its relevance or what you are intending to demonstrate by its use. For this reason, paragraphs typically do not end with quoted material.