When it comes to quoting yourself, the rules can seem less than obvious, and that’s where Do I Need Quotation Marks When I Quote Myself? comes into play – helping you find clarity while keeping your work authentic. In my writing journey as both blogger and author, I often asked whether quotation marks were required when I quote my own words. The short answer is simple: it depends on the context. In an academic setting, you’re expected to cite previous writing to stay legal and clear. But as a digital creator, the practice feels more flexible depending on the medium you publish in.
From experience, I’ve learned the key is to know your audience. An in-depth guide or paper may demand strict self-quotation rules, while a casual article works best with a natural approach. What truly matters is keeping your words compelling and easy to follow. Whether in a blog, paper, or book, using quotation marks wisely not only reflects professionalism but also makes your work accurate and engaging.
Let’s break it all down, with examples, case studies, style guide rules, and professional insights to help you quote yourself like a pro.
What Is Self-Quotation? Understanding the Basics
Self-quotation is when a writer or speaker references something they’ve said or written previously. Unlike quoting others, self-quotation doesn’t always require strict formatting – but it does require clarity.
Examples of self-quotation include:
- Quoting lines from your previous article in a new post
- Referencing a past statement from a speech or interview
- Repeating a tweet, slogan, or brand message in another format
“I believe the biggest mistake writers make is waiting for inspiration.” – Example of a self-quotation reused in a blog post.
The key goal of self-quotation is to retain meaning while avoiding confusion between past and present voices.
Should You Use Quotation Marks When Quoting Yourself?
Quotation marks serve to signal borrowed text – even if it’s borrowed from you. But do they always apply?
When to use quotation marks:
- When the quote is a verbatim repeat from a past work
- When clarity demands a visual distinction
- When referencing published, copyrighted material you previously authored
When NOT to use quotation marks:
- When paraphrasing your past ideas
- In internal documentation or personal notes
- When the quote is already part of a seamless narrative voice
In general:
If you’re quoting your exact words from a distinct source (past article, book, interview), use quotation marks. If you’re paraphrasing or summarizing yourself, don’t.
Quoting Yourself in Different Writing Contexts: Rules and Examples
Let’s explore how self-quotation differs across formats:
Emails and Informal Communication
- Use quotation marks for clarity if needed, but keep tone natural.
- You can also italicize instead of quoting.
Example:
As I said in last week’s note, “We should keep our customer support hours extended until Q4.”
Essays and Academic Papers
- Treat your past work as a source.
- Use quotation marks and proper citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago).
Example (APA Style):
According to Smith (2020), “Writing clarity improves with sentence variation” (p. 31).
Speeches and Presentations
- Verbal quotations often don’t need explicit cues unless clarity is required.
- Visual aids like slides can include quotation marks.
Blogs, Articles, and Content Creation
- If your old quote was published elsewhere, use quotation marks.
- For reused headlines or brand slogans, quotation marks or bold/italic styling can distinguish them.
Example:
In my previous guide, I wrote, “Content must always offer clarity before creativity.”
Distinguishing Your Current Voice From a Past Statement
One challenge of self-quotation is voice confusion. Readers must clearly know when you’re referencing a past idea versus making a new statement.
Tips to distinguish voices:
- Use clear transitions: As I wrote in 2022…, In my earlier article…
- Shift tense or perspective when appropriate
- Use formatting – quotation marks, italics, or block quotes
Example:
Before:
Clarity is always better than cleverness.
After:
As I mentioned in my previous course materials, “Clarity is always better than cleverness.”
Self-Quotation vs. Self-Referencing: What’s the Difference?
Though related, self-quotation and self-referencing aren’t the same.
| Aspect | Self-Quotation | Self-Referencing |
| Definition | Repeating your own exact words | Citing a previous work or idea |
| Formatting | Quotation marks + citation | In-text or bibliography citation only |
| Purpose | Highlight insight, emphasize a point | Show continuity, support a claim |
| Example | “Success comes from clarity.” | (Smith, 2022, The Writing Blueprint) |
Use quotation marks for self-quotation. For self-referencing, standard citation styles apply – no quotes needed.
How to Properly Cite Your Own Work (APA, MLA, Chicago Style)
Citing yourself isn’t vanity – it’s intellectual honesty. Here’s how top style guides handle it:
APA Style
- Treat yourself like any other author.
- Include the year and page number.
- Use double quotation marks.
Example:
“Digital clarity comes from structural consistency” (Smith, 2021, p. 19).
MLA Style
- Use author’s name (your own) and source title.
- Quote exactly and cite accordingly.
Example:
“Pacing is a writer’s secret weapon” (Smith, Blogging Clarity, 45).
Chicago Style
- Footnote preferred.
Use quotation marks and formal referencing.
| Style | Quotation Marks? | In-Text Citation? | Bibliography Entry? |
| APA | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| MLA | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Chicago | Yes | Footnote or Endnote | Yes |
Do You Own Your Words? Legal and Copyright Considerations
You might think: “It’s my quote – I can use it.” Not always.
When self-quoting could become a legal issue:
- If your original work is owned by a publisher
- If it was created under contract or employment
- If the reuse violates exclusivity terms
Tip: Check your copyright or contributor agreement before reusing quotes from:
- Previously published books or academic journals
- Articles written for news sites or third parties
- Scripts or corporate-owned content
Quote reuse doesn’t always equal ownership. When in doubt, cite yourself or seek permission.
Self-Quotation in Creative Writing and Literature
Writers often reuse past lines, characters, or metaphors. But even in fiction, self-quotation needs balance.
Examples of self-quotation in literature:
- Maya Angelou reuses themes and exact phrases across memoirs
- Stephen King refers back to “The Dark Tower” in multiple novels
- Joan Didion quotes earlier essays to build cohesion
Key Point: In literature, self-quotation adds texture, depth, and voice consistency. But clarity is still key. If the reused line might confuse the reader, format it with quotes or italics.
Quoting Yourself in Digital Media: Blogs, Social Posts & Newsletters
Digital content moves fast – but that doesn’t mean clarity is optional.
Best practices:
- Use quotation marks or bold text to flag old quotes
- Link to the original source if available
- Avoid reusing the same quote too frequently
Example (in a blog):
Like I shared in last week’s post, “Call-to-action buttons are micro-decisions in disguise.”
SEO Tip: Quoting yourself strategically in digital content can improve internal linking, content depth, and authority signals for search engines.
Quoting Characters or Dialogues You’ve Created
If you’re quoting a fictional character from your own work, treat it like any other literary quotation.
Correct format:
In The Rain Seller, my character Eva says, “Some storms you don’t survive – you become.”
When to quote characters:
- When analyzing or referencing in essays
- When marketing the book (in blurbs or promotional material)
- When quoting your own stories in other stories
Just make sure the quote is attributed clearly – and fits the new context.
Quoting Yourself for Emphasis: Smart Use or Overkill?
Sometimes, you quote yourself just to highlight a punchy idea.
But beware – overusing self-quotes can come off as boastful or repetitive.
Use self-quotes for emphasis when:
- The line delivers unique insight
- The phrase has become recognizable (like a slogan)
- It breaks up narrative with punch
“Content without intent is noise.” – Used sparingly, this quote reinforces a strong message.
Avoid clutter. One or two strong self-quotes per long-form article is enough.
How to Make Self-Quoting Natural in Personal Narratives
In storytelling, quotes should blend in, not stick out.
Make it natural by:
- Introducing the quote with context
- Keeping the tone conversational
- Avoiding abrupt formatting changes
Example:
I remember saying to myself during that pitch, “This won’t work unless we pivot fast.” That moment shaped how I approached every project since.
Case Study: Author Jenny Lawson, in Furiously Happy, blends journal entries, past lines, and internal dialogue to create humor and vulnerability – without ever disrupting flow.
Guidelines for Choosing What to Quote From Yourself
Not everything you say is worth repeating.
Only quote yourself when the quote is:
- Insightful
- Memorable
- Relevant to the current topic
- Unchanged in meaning
Ask yourself:
- Does this quote add value or clarity?
- Is it better than a fresh sentence?
- Will readers find it useful?
Common Pitfalls in Self-Quotation and How to Avoid Them
Here’s what to watch out for:
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | Fix |
| Quoting too frequently | Dilutes impact | Use sparingly for emphasis |
| Not distinguishing current/past voice | Confuses the reader | Use transitions or formatting |
| Forgetting to cite previous work | Looks careless or dishonest | Follow citation guidelines |
| Quoting copyrighted materials | Legal issues if you don’t hold rights | Check your publishing contract |
| Using self-quotes for filler | Wastes space, loses reader interest | Be selective with what you include |
Self-Quotation in Professional & Academic Portfolios
Reusing your own quotes or writing can strengthen your authority – if done right.
Where it works well:
- Portfolio case studies
- Research summaries
- Client presentations
- Conference talks
Best practice: Use quotes to support your claim or method – then expand on it with new insights.
Self-Editing: Ensuring Your Quoted Text Serves a Purpose
Before including a quote from yourself, ask:
- Is it the best possible way to express this point?
- Does it offer new context or evidence?
- Does it clarify or inspire?
Cut quotes that don’t serve a clear function. Readers want insight, not echoes.
Final Thoughts
Quoting yourself isn’t about showing off – it’s about reinforcing a message with consistency and clarity. Whether you’re referencing a past insight, reusing published content, or building a narrative thread across platforms, knowing when and how to use quotation marks when you quote yourself is crucial for maintaining professionalism, trust, and coherence.
The context – academic, creative, digital, or casual – should guide your choice. Use quotation marks when clarity is needed or when you’re repeating exact words from a previously published source. Avoid them when paraphrasing or speaking in a fluid, narrative tone. Always follow the style guide required (APA, MLA, or Chicago), especially in academic or professional work.
The goal isn’t just to repeat yourself but to build on what you’ve said, linking your past voice with your present purpose. Proper self-quotation shows confidence, awareness, and mastery of your own material. Done right, it reinforces your authority and enhances reader engagement without sounding redundant or self-centered.
FAQs
Do I need quotation marks when I quote myself in an academic paper?
Yes, especially if you’re quoting exact phrases from previously published work. You should also cite yourself using the correct style guide, such as APA or MLA, to avoid issues with self-plagiarism.
Is it okay to quote myself in a blog post?
Absolutely. If you’re referencing your own previous article or content, quotation marks help distinguish the quoted portion. Just ensure it adds value and fits the context naturally within the flow of the piece.
Can I use self-quotes on social media without quotation marks?
Yes, in informal settings like tweets or captions, quotation marks are optional. But if you’re reusing a well-known quote or line from your own past post, using them can increase clarity and engagement.
Should I quote myself in marketing content or ads?
Yes, if the quote serves as a memorable slogan, tagline, or thought leadership point. Use quotation marks to highlight it, especially if it’s something you’re known for or want readers to remember.
How do I avoid sounding arrogant when quoting myself?
Use self-quotes sparingly and always with purpose. Choose lines that support your argument, educate the reader, or reinforce a key message – not just to highlight your past work. Let the quote serve the audience, not your ego.
