Using direct quotes in essays in a great way to support your ideas with concrete evidence and to make your argument come alive. Also it helps to support your topic or your thesis.However, if you want your essay to look professional, then you have to know how to cite quotes correctly, whether you're using MLA or APA style. And remember: if you use a quote but don't give credit to the original author, that is considered plagiarism. In addition to putting the quotes in the essay, you'll have to provide a reference page at the end of your essay. If you want to know how to put a quote in an essay, see Step 1 below to get started.