Footnote Placement- Before or After Quotation Marks – A Comprehensive Guide

Do footnotes go before or after quotation marks? This is a common question that often arises when writing academic papers or formal documents. Understanding the correct placement of footnotes in relation to quotation marks is crucial for maintaining proper citation and formatting standards. In this article, we will explore the conventions surrounding this topic and provide you with the information you need to ensure your work is well-structured and professionally presented.

In the world of academic writing, footnotes serve as a means to provide additional information, cite sources, or clarify a point made within the text. They are typically found at the bottom of the page where the reference is mentioned and are indicated by a superscript number within the text. When it comes to the placement of footnotes in relation to quotation marks, there are specific guidelines to follow.

According to the Modern Language Association (MLA) style, footnotes should be placed after the closing quotation marks. This means that if you are quoting a source, the footnote should follow the quotation marks, as shown in the following example:

“He stated, “The data is conclusive” (Smith 25).”

In this case, the footnote number (25) is placed after the closing quotation marks and before the period, indicating the reference to the source.

On the other hand, the American Psychological Association (APA) style suggests a slightly different approach. According to APA guidelines, footnotes should be placed before the closing quotation marks. This means that if you are quoting a source, the footnote should come before the quotation marks, as shown in the following example:

“The data is conclusive (Smith 25).”

In this example, the footnote number (25) is placed before the closing quotation marks and before the period, indicating the reference to the source.

While the MLA and APA styles have their own preferences regarding the placement of footnotes in relation to quotation marks, it is essential to adhere to the guidelines specified by the particular citation style required for your academic or professional work. Failing to do so may result in formatting errors or misinterpretation of your references.

In conclusion, the placement of footnotes in relation to quotation marks depends on the citation style you are following. For MLA style, footnotes should be placed after the closing quotation marks, while APA style suggests placing them before the closing quotation marks. It is crucial to understand and follow these guidelines to ensure your work is properly formatted and meets the expectations of your academic or professional audience.