Avoiding Plagiarism

What is plagiarism?

Simply put, plagiarism is borrowing or stealing other people's ideas/words/work. Some plagiarism is done on purpose. (But you wouldn't do that, would you?) A lot of plagiarism is done by accident. To avoid both, read on.

Don't plagiarize!

To avoid borrowing other people's ideas/words/work, follow these dos and don'ts.

Dos

• Take notes carefully.
• Use quotation marks with direct quotes.
• Paraphrase or summarize other people's ideas/words.
• Cite the author and the sources you use for every quote, paraphrase, or summary in your paper.

Don'ts

• Don't ever use a direct quote without quotation marks and a citation.
• Don't forget to use a citation when you summarize/paraphrase other's ideas/opinions.
• Don't hand in a copy of someone else's paper with your name on it.
• Don't download or buy papers from the Internet.

Helpful Links

• Facts on File: Avoiding Plagiarism Sign in for access to this resource
• SIRS: Reference Toolbox Sign in for access to this resource