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Block Quote

Overview

Block quotes are used to highlight brief, meaningful quotations from a credible source. They visually separate quoted content from the main instructional content, helping learners recognize important perspectives, insights, or statements while maintaining a clear distinction between source material and course content.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Using block quotes for long passages or large amounts of text
  • Using block quotes for content that is not an actual quotation
  • Using block quotes purely for visual emphasis or decoration
  • Placing interactive elements or instructional content inside block quotes

[Example]

“People who love to eat are always the best people.” — Julia Child

CDD Tag

<blockquote></blockquote>

Guidelines

Do

ID

Use Blockquotes to Highlight Notable Quotes

Blockquotes should be used to emphasize short, impactful quotes that reinforce key ideas. Always include attribution directly below the quote to provide context and credibility. This ensures learners understand the source and can interpret the information correctly, while the blockquote itself provides visual emphasis without adding unnecessary visual weight.

ID

Keep Blockquotes Short and Focused

Limit blockquotes to three sentences or less if possible. Short quotes remain scannable and reinforce key ideas without interrupting the reading flow.

Do Not

ID

Use Blockquotes for Entire Paragraphs or Sections

Blockquotes should contain short, impactful quotes—not long passages. Extended content reduces scannability and weakens visual emphasis.

ID

Production

Use Blockquotes for Decorative Styling

Blockquotes should never be used just to create visual variation. They must communicate meaning and highlight a quote, not serve as a design element.

ID

Production

Place Interactive Elements Inside Blockquotes

Quotes should remain purely informational. Adding buttons, links, or images inside a blockquote blurs its intent and introduces accessibility issues.

Published on June 5, 2026, 10:36 AM EDT. Last updated on June 10, 2026, 2:11 PM EDT.