How do you properly attribute a quote in broadcast writing?

• A. Attribute quotes to the organization only
• B. Identify the source by name and title, attribute verbatim quotes, and ensure context is preserved
• C. Paraphrase without attribution
• D. Put quotes in brackets without context

Answer: (B)

In broadcast writing, attribution means clearly linking every spoken quote to the exact person who said it, including their name and title when relevant, and preserving the original context of the words. The best approach is to identify the source by name and title, attribute the quote verbatim, and keep the surrounding context intact so the speaker’s meaning isn’t altered. This practice gives listeners a precise, credible frame for the information, shows who spoke and their authority, and avoids misrepresentation.

For example, if a city official speaks on policy, you would state who they are, their role, and then present the exact words: for instance, “Councilmember Jane Doe, chair of the environmental committee, said, ‘We will reduce emissions by …’” This makes it clear who spoke, their position, and preserves the exact phrasing and intent.

Other approaches don’t fit because attributing quotes only to an organization hides the individual source and their authority; paraphrasing without attribution leaves the listener unsure who spoke and can distort meaning; putting quotes in brackets without context removes the source and the necessary background, which can mislead the audience.