When integrating evidence, explanations provide what?

• A. They replace the need for citations.
• B. They provide context for quotes or paraphrase, clarifying relevance.
• C. They reduce the length of the essay.
• D. They always require three quotes.

Answer: (B)

When you bring in evidence, you must show how it actually supports your point. Explanations provide context for quotes or paraphrase, clarifying relevance. In other words, after presenting a piece of evidence, you interpret it for the reader: what it means, why it matters, and how it links to your claim or thesis. This helps readers see the connection between the evidence and your argument, and it prevents the evidence from feeling like a disconnected fact.

Remember, explanations don’t replace citations or format; you still need to cite sources. Explanations also aren’t about piling on as many quotes as possible—many essays use a mix of paraphrase and quotes, with explanations that tie each piece to the point you’re making.