Generally, in a research-style paper it is better to paraphrase than to directly quote a source. Paraphrasing ensures you have done the work of digesting the idea into your own argument. You are using a source to build your own argument rather than merely pointing to an argument made elsewhere.*

A quotation should only be used in place of a paraphrase when you have a good reason for it. Some good reasons may be:

• You are representing the ideas of a writer you disagree with. Quoting can help ensure you are representing their thought accurately and fairly.
• The quoted material is of a quality that you cannot adequately paraphrase it. Examples of this may include poetry or highly precise technical or legal language.
• You are quoting an authority on the subject whose words lend credibility to your argument.
• The quotation frames your ensuing discussion. Scripture will often take on this role in seminary writing.

*Pro-tip: The best place to start paraphrasing is in your notes. Rather than underlining or collecting quotations, write what you learned or noticed in your own words. When you do collect a quotation, make sure you can tell which words in your notes are your own and which are another writer's.