In my writing journey as a blogger and author, quoting yourself, quoting your own words, or deciding to quote yourself often feel tricky at first. I remember an earlier post where I rediscover a phrase that still resonates, and in those moments I wonder about quotation marks, self quotation, self-quotation, and even self-quotes.
The short answer is simple: it depends, always depending on context. In digital writing for a digital audience, using quotation marks may feel unnecessary, while in academic writing or an academic setting, they are often required for legal clarity, ethics, and responsibility..
With experience, what I learned is that knowing your audience is key. A professional article, paper, or in-depth guide calls for a more strict, formal approach, while a casual article, blog, or digital content allows a flexible practice and creative freedom.
Whether you quote my own words, quote your own writing, quote directly using a direct quote or direct quotation, or choose paraphrase and paraphrasing, the role of content, the version you choose, and how the message will come across all matter.
Understanding Self-Quotation
Self-quotation is simply using words you previously wrote or said in your current work. It’s more common than you think. You might quote yourself in a blog post, academic paper, social media post, or even in a speech. The key is to give context so your audience knows these are your past words, not someone else’s.
Why writers quote themselves:
- Authority and credibility: Referencing your prior insights shows experience and consistency.
- Continuity: Helps connect ideas across multiple works.
- Emphasis: Repeating a key thought strengthens your point.
Example:
In a 2020 blog post, I wrote, “Writing clearly is more important than writing fancy.” Using this again reminds readers why simplicity matters.
Do You Need Quotation Marks When Quoting Yourself?
The short answer: it depends on context.
When to Use Quotation Marks
- Directly repeating a sentence or phrase exactly as written before
- When the quote is a published work or formal writing
- When clarity demands distinguishing your previous words from current narrative
Example:
I once said, “Simplicity in writing beats complexity every time.”
Here, quotation marks make it clear these are my exact previous words.
When Not to Use Quotation Marks
- Summarizing or paraphrasing your past work
- Referencing your ideas in casual or informal communication
- When the quote is integrated naturally into your sentence
Example:
- Original: “Simplicity in writing beats complexity every time.”
- Paraphrased: I’ve always believed that keeping writing simple makes it more effective.
Quick Reference Table:
| Scenario | Use Quotation Marks? |
| Exact repetition of previous text | Yes |
| Paraphrasing previous text | No |
| Academic citation | Yes |
| Casual email or blog summary | No |
Context Matters: Self-Quoting in Different Writing Scenarios
Informal Communication
Emails, chats, and personal letters are common places for self-quotation. Use it sparingly, often without quotation marks, unless it’s essential for clarity.
Example:
As I mentioned in last week’s update, our approach to content marketing needs to focus on clarity and audience engagement.
Notice there are no quotation marks, but your audience understands it’s a prior statement.
Academic and Formal Writing
In research papers, essays, and dissertations, self-quotation is more formal. You must cite your work to avoid plagiarism.
Example (APA Style):
According to my previous study (Haris, 2023), clarity in writing significantly improves comprehension.
Here, quotation marks are needed if you use the exact words. Otherwise, a citation suffices.
Speeches and Presentations
Quoting yourself in speeches requires natural integration. Avoid sounding like you’re reading your own works verbatim.
Example:
Last year, I emphasized the importance of clarity in writing, and I still stand by that idea today.
- Tip: Briefly mention the context or year to make it credible.
Blogs, Articles, and Content Creation
In digital content, self-quotation boosts authority. You can quote yourself to reference past posts or insights.
Example:
In my previous article on content marketing, I explained how storytelling engages readers more effectively.
Distinguishing Past vs. Present Voice
Readers can get confused if your past and current voices blend. Make your self-quotation clear and purposeful:
- Use past tense: “I argued…”
- Include context: Mention date, publication, or platform
- Highlight with quotation marks when using exact words
Example:
In 2021, I stated, “Engaging content requires knowing your audience inside out.” That principle remains relevant today.
Self-Quotation vs. Self-Referencing
It’s easy to confuse these terms:
- Self-quotation: Using your exact words from previous work
- Self-referencing: Mentioning or summarizing your previous ideas without quoting
Example:
- Quotation: “Consistency in posting drives engagement,” I wrote last year.
- Reference: I have always emphasized consistency in posting to build engagement.
Citing Your Own Work Correctly
Correct citation ensures clarity and avoids plagiarism.
APA Style
- Format for self-quotation: (Author, Year, p. X)
- Example:
“Engaging content is always clear and concise” (Haris, 2023, p. 12).
MLA Style
- Use parenthetical citations with author name and page
- Example:
As I noted, “Clarity beats cleverness every time” (Haris 45).
Chicago Style
- Footnotes or endnotes
- Example:
“Writing clearly matters more than writing fancy.”¹
¹Haris, The Writing Guide, 2023, 45.
Legal and Copyright Considerations
You own your words, but there are exceptions:
- If you wrote under contract for a company, they might hold rights
- Republishing previously copyrighted work could require permission
- Self-quotation in academic journals must follow publisher rules
Tip: Always check rights if your past work was formally published.
Creative Writing and Literature
Self-quotation in creative works can add style and emphasis:
- Reuse your dialogue or descriptive lines for thematic continuity
- Highlight recurring motifs or phrases for effect
Example:
J.K. Rowling reuses character insights across Harry Potter books, maintaining continuity.
Quoting Characters You Created:
- Use quotation marks
- Clarify which character is speaking
- Example:
As my character Emily said, “The sky holds secrets we cannot see.”
Read More: What Is a Verb Root? Meaning, Rules, and Clear Examples
Digital Media: Blogs, Social Posts, Newsletters
Self-quotation online should be:
- Brief and relevant
- Linked to original work
- Readable on mobile devices
Best Practices Table:
| Platform | Tips for Self-Quotation |
| Blog | Hyperlink previous work; integrate naturally |
| Newsletter | Use quotes sparingly; add context |
| Social Media | Short, catchy quotes; tag original post |
Quoting Yourself for Emphasis
Quoting yourself works when it adds value, not when it’s repetitive.
Smart use:
- Reintroduces a critical point
- Strengthens your authority
Overkill example:
- Repeating the same sentence multiple times in one article
- Feels self-centered and redundant
Guidelines for Choosing What to Quote
Only quote yourself when:
- The quote adds authority
- The quote clarifies a previous point
- The quote enhances storytelling or argument
Checklist:
- Does it provide new insight?
- Is it concise and relevant?
- Does it strengthen my point?
Common Pitfalls in Self-Quotation
- Overuse: Flooding your work with past quotes
- Redundancy: Repeating what’s already obvious
- Confusion: Blurring past vs. current voice
How to avoid pitfalls:
- Edit ruthlessly
- Use quotes strategically
- Integrate smoothly with narrative
Self-Quotation in Professional & Academic Portfolios
Self-quotation works well in portfolios:
- Showcases achievements and expertise
- Demonstrates consistency and thought leadership
Example:
In my portfolio, I highlight key research findings with direct quotes from past publications, adding credibility.
Self-Editing Your Quoted Text
Ensure every self-quote serves a purpose:
- Check for relevance
- Keep quotes concise
- Remove repetitive or weak quotes
Tip: Ask yourself, “Does this quote enhance understanding or authority?” If not, cut it.
FAQs:
1. Do I need quotation marks when I quote myself in a blog?
Usually, no. In blogs and casual digital writing, quotation marks are optional unless clarity or emphasis is needed.
2. Is self-quotation required in academic writing?
Yes. In academic writing, quoting your own words often requires quotation marks and proper self-citation to maintain ethics and transparency.
3. Can I paraphrase my own previous work instead of quoting it?
Yes. Paraphrasing is allowed and often preferred, as long as the meaning is original and you cite the source when required.
4. Does quoting myself count as plagiarism?
It can, if you reuse your work without citation in formal settings. Proper self-citation avoids self-plagiarism issues.
5. How do I decide whether to quote or paraphrase my own words?
Think about context, audience, and purpose. Direct quotes work for precision, while paraphrasing fits smoother narrative flow.
Conclusion
Quoting yourself doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all rule. The right choice depends on context, audience, and writing goals. In digital spaces, flexibility works. In academic or professional settings, clarity, citation, and ethics matter most. When you use self-quotation wisely, it strengthens your message, reflects professionalism, and keeps your writing accurate and trustworthy.
