How do I use signal phrases?

Signal phrases have a variety of functions. They can be placed at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.

When using signal phrases to integrate another author’s ideas, words, or data, include:

  • The name of the scholar(s) or study
  • An attributive tag (e.g., “has proposed,” “has asserted”)
  • The quote or paraphrased material

The verb tense you use in your signal phrase depends on the style guide you are following.