Years ago I went into more detail about the mechanics of quoting, here: http://forums.psychcentral.com/commu...ing-quote.html

I think the simple answer to the OP's question is: instead of going directly to the Quick Reply box at the bottom of the thread, click on the Reply/Reply With Quote button under the particular post that you want to reply to. If anyone has any difficulty finding that button, see also: http://forums.psychcentral.com/tutor...ml#post1368845