Pull Quote and Block Quote

Definitions

Pull Quote
Pull quotes are a graphic style of text created by using an excerpt from the main body copy. They are styled to visually stand out using a different font size, format, and color than running body copy, with the goal of attracting the reader’s attention. They can be used with or without an attribution.

Block Quote
A block quotation, or block quote, is an extended, direct quote, usually from an external source. It is set apart visually by starting on a new line and indenting text a half-inch from the left margin. Block quotes are often used as citations, providing attribution to the original source in alignment with the style guide used. Some style guides also indent block quotes from the right margin, and quoted text is sometimes italicized. 

Usage and Specifications

How to Use Pull Quotes
Pull quotes emphasize an important idea or piece of information by quoting or paraphrasing text and treating it as a graphic page element. They are often used to break up blocks of text.

Here are some helpful best practices:

  • Keep it simple. Select text that does not give away too much of the story.
  • Be bold. Text should be meaningful and attention-grabbing.
  • Keep it short. Do not exceed five lines of text. Select an eye-catching statement that will attract readers.
  • Make the text stand out. Use a different format, font, and size.
  • Be consistent. All pull quotes should share the same format, font, and size.
  • Create distance. Avoid inserting a pull quote within too close of proximity to other pull quotes, headings, subheadings, or images.
  • Turn on text wrap. You want to eliminate extended text lines.

Format text according to the style guide. See guidance below on choosing an appropriate style guide.

Colors

  • To increase legibility, ensure the text contrasts with the background and that the contrast meets WCAG 2.2 AA web accessibility standards.
  • Maintain brand consistency. Pull quotes are often rendered in a different color than running body text; visit the University Brand Guide for details on acceptable colors and advice on color combinations.

How to Use Block Quotes
Block quotes are direct quotations of text, often used to cite text, set apart from running body copy by indentation without quotation marks.

Generally, block quotes should be rendered in the font, size, and color as running body text. However, format text according to the style guide you’re using. See guidance below on choosing an appropriate style guide. 

Style Guide Usage
Choose a style guide appropriate for the field, purpose, and audience of your content:

Example Pull Quote

Example of pull quote text

Example Block Quote

Example Block quote text