Final answer:
To format a block quotation, introduce it with a colon, indent one-half inch from the left margin, double-space the text, and include an in-text citation after the punctuation.
Step-by-step explanation:
To correctly format a block quotation according to MLA style guidelines, you need to follow several steps. First, introduce the quotation with a sentence that ends with a colon. Then, you will indent all the lines of the quotation one-half inch from the left margin.
This indentation replaces the use of quotation marks to indicate that the text is a direct quote. Remember to double-space the quotation, just as you would the rest of your paper, and include the in-text citation after the ending punctuation of the quotation.
Do not add extra spaces above or below the block quotation, and ensure that it aligns with the rest of your document's formatting, which traditionally includes one-inch margins and a double-spaced body.