How should paraphrased statements in interviews be handled?

• A. Paraphrased statements should be published without attribution.
• B. Only direct quotes require attribution.
• C. Paraphrased statements should be attributed, but only if the source is willing.
• D. Attribute paraphrased statements accurately.

Answer: (D)

When you restate someone’s words in your own terms, you still owe attribution to the person who provided the information. Paraphrasing carries the same obligation as quoting: you’re conveying someone else’s idea, so readers need to know who said it to judge credibility and context. The key is accuracy—the paraphrase should reflect the speaker’s meaning and intent as closely as possible, without distorting nuance or misrepresenting what was said. Proper attribution protects trust and prevents readers from assuming the idea is your own or from misreading the source’s position.

For example, if the interviewee notes that costs are rising and a re-evaluation of procurement might be needed, you’d paraphrase in your own words but still name where that idea came from, and ensure the wording accurately captures the pressed concern and suggested direction. If a source asks to remain anonymous, you can still paraphrase and attribute in a way that respects that request (e.g., “an interviewee who requested anonymity said…”), but the core practice remains: paraphrase should be attributed and accurate.