To select a good quote, look for a passage that supports your. For formal writing, do not rely on just one website. Using a direct quote in your essay is a great way to support your ideas with concrete evidence, which you need to support your thesis. Don’t use the words of another person to stand in for your own opinions or insights. You can do so by looking up the quotation on authoritative websites. The Quote: While quoting famous people who have said something cool in the past may seem like an appealing way to start your essay, remember that colleges want to hear YOUR thoughts. Also, verify the author of your quotation.