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How to Avoid Plagiarism | Tips on Citing Sources

Published on October 10, 2021 by Tegan George . Revised on November 21, 2023.

Plagiarism means using someone else’s words or ideas without properly crediting the original author. Sometimes plagiarism involves deliberately stealing someone’s work, but more often it happens accidentally, through carelessness or forgetfulness.When you write an academic paper, you build upon the work of others and use various credible sources for information and evidence. To avoid plagiarism, you need to correctly incorporate these sources into your text.

You can avoid plagiarism by :

• Keeping track of the sources you consult in your research
• Paraphrasing or quoting from your sources (by using a paraphrasing tool and adding your own ideas)
• Crediting the original author in an in-text citation and in your reference list
• Using a plagiarism checker before you submit
• Use generative AI tools responsibly (outputs may be detected by an   AI detector )

Even accidental plagiarism can have serious consequences , so take care with how you integrate sources into your writing.

Table of contents

Keeping track of your sources, avoiding plagiarism when quoting, avoiding plagiarism when paraphrasing, citing your sources correctly, using a plagiarism checker, using ai tools responsibly, checklist: plagiarism prevention, free lecture slides, frequently asked questions.

One of the most common ways that students commit plagiarism is by simply forgetting where an idea came from and unintentionally presenting it as their own. You can easily avoid this pitfall by keeping your notes organized and compiling a list of citations as you go.

Clearly label which thoughts are yours and which aren’t in your notes, highlight statements that need citations, and carefully mark any text copied directly from a source with quotation marks.

In the example below, red indicates a claim that requires a source, blue indicates information paraphrased or summarized from a source, and green indicates a direct quotation.

Notes for my paper on global warming

• Greenhouse gas emissions trap heat and raise global temperatures [cite details]
• Causes more severe weather: hurricanes, fires, water scarcity [cite examples]
• Animal habitats across the world are under threat from climate change [cite examples]
• Just this year, 23 species have been declared extinct (BBC News 2021)
• “Animals are changing shape… some are growing bigger wings, some are sprouting longer ears and others are growing larger bills” in order to cool off (Zeldovich 2021)

Managing sources with the Scribbr Citation Generator

To make your life easier later, make sure to write down the full details of every source you consult. That includes not only books and journal articles, but also things like websites, magazine articles, and videos. This makes it easy to go back and check where you found a phrase, fact, or idea that you want to use in your paper.

Scribbr’s Citation Generator allows you to start building and managing your reference list as you go, saving time later. When you’re ready to submit, simply download your reference list!

Generate accurate citations with Scribbr

Prevent plagiarism. run a free check..

Quoting means copying a piece of text word for word. The copied text must be introduced in your own words, enclosed in quotation marks , and correctly attributed to the original author.

In general, quote sparingly. Quotes are appropriate when:

• You’re using an exact definition, introduced by the original author
• It is impossible for you to rephrase the original text without losing its meaning
• You’re analyzing the use of language in the original text
• You want to maintain the authority and style of the author’s words

Long quotations should be formatted as block quotes . But for longer blocks of text, it’s usually better to paraphrase instead.

Paraphrasing means using your own words to explain something from a source.

Paraphrasing does not mean just switching out a few words from a copy-pasted text. To paraphrase properly, you should rewrite the author’s point in your own words to show that you have fully understood it.

Every time you quote or paraphrase, you must include an in-text or footnote citation clearly identifying the original author. Each citation must correspond to a full reference in the reference list or bibliography at the end of your paper.

This acknowledges the source of your information, avoiding plagiarism, and it helps your readers locate the source for themselves if they would like to learn more.

There are many different citation styles, each with its own rules. A few common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago . Your instructor may assign a particular style for you to use, or you may be able to choose. The most important thing is to apply one style consistently throughout the text.

The examples below follow APA Style.

Citing a single source

Citing multiple sources

If you quote multiple sources in one sentence, make sure to cite them separately so that it’s clear which material came from which source.

To create correctly formatted source citations, you can use our free Citation Generator.

APA Citation Generator MLA Citation Generator

And if you’re citing in APA Style, consider using Scribbr’s Citation Checker , a unique tool that scans your citations for errors. It can detect inconsistencies between your in-text citations and your reference list, as well as making sure your citations are flawlessly formatted.

Most universities use plagiarism checkers like Turnitin to detect potential plagiarism. Here’s how plagiarism checkers work : they scan your document, compare it to a database of webpages and publications, and highlight passages that appear similar to other texts.

Consider using a plagiarism checker yourself before submitting your paper. This allows you to identify issues that could constitute accidental plagiarism, such as:

• Forgotten or misplaced citations
• Missing quotation marks
• Paraphrased material that’s too similar to the original text

Then you can easily fix any instances of potential plagiarism.

There are differences in accuracy and safety between plagiarism checkers. To help students choose, we conducted extensive research comparing the best plagiarism checkers .

Generative AI tools like ChatGPT can be helpful at different stages of the writing and research process. However, these tools can also be used to plagiarize in various ways (whether intentionally or unintentionally). When using these tools, it’s important to avoid the following:

• AI-assisted plagiarism:   Passing off AI-generated text as your own work (e.g., research papers, homework assignments)
• Plagiarism :   Using the tool to paraphrase content from another source and passing it off as original work
• Self-plagiarism :   Using the tool to rewrite a paper you previously submitted

It’s important to use AI tools responsibly and to be aware that AI-generated outputs may be detected by your university’s AI detector .

When using someone else’s exact words, I have properly formatted them as a quote .

When using someone else’s ideas, I have properly paraphrased , expressing the idea completely in my own words.

I have included an in-text citation every time I use words, ideas, or information from a source.

Every source I cited is included in my reference list or bibliography .

I have consistently followed the rules of my required citation style .

I have not committed self-plagiarism by reusing any part of a previous paper.

I have used a reliable plagiarism checker as a final check.

Your document should be free from plagiarism!

Are you a teacher or professor who would like to educate your students about plagiarism? You can download our free lecture slides, available for Google Slides and Microsoft PowerPoint.

Open Google Slides Download PowerPoint

Accidental plagiarism is one of the most common examples of plagiarism . Perhaps you forgot to cite a source, or paraphrased something a bit too closely. Maybe you can’t remember where you got an idea from, and aren’t totally sure if it’s original or not.

These all count as plagiarism, even though you didn’t do it on purpose. When in doubt, make sure you’re citing your sources . Also consider running your work through a plagiarism checker tool prior to submission, which work by using advanced database software to scan for matches between your text and existing texts.

Scribbr’s Plagiarism Checker takes less than 10 minutes and can help you turn in your paper with confidence.

To avoid plagiarism when summarizing an article or other source, follow these two rules:

• Write the summary entirely in your own words by paraphrasing the author’s ideas.
• Cite the source with an in-text citation and a full reference so your reader can easily find the original text.

Plagiarism can be detected by your professor or readers if the tone, formatting, or style of your text is different in different parts of your paper, or if they’re familiar with the plagiarized source.

Many universities also use plagiarism detection software like Turnitin’s, which compares your text to a large database of other sources, flagging any similarities that come up.

It can be easier than you think to commit plagiarism by accident. Consider using a plagiarism checker prior to submitting your paper to ensure you haven’t missed any citations.

Some examples of plagiarism include:

• Copying and pasting a Wikipedia article into the body of an assignment
• Quoting a source without including a citation
• Not paraphrasing a source properly, such as maintaining wording too close to the original
• Forgetting to cite the source of an idea

The most surefire way to avoid plagiarism is to always cite your sources . When in doubt, cite!

If you’re concerned about plagiarism, consider running your work through a plagiarism checker tool prior to submission. Scribbr’s Plagiarism Checker takes less than 10 minutes and can help you turn in your paper with confidence.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the “Cite this Scribbr article” button to automatically add the citation to our free Citation Generator.

George, T. (2023, November 21). How to Avoid Plagiarism | Tips on Citing Sources. Scribbr. Retrieved August 9, 2024, from https://www.scribbr.com/plagiarism/how-to-avoid-plagiarism/

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Tegan George

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Home » Understanding Plagiarism: Types, Consequences, and Prevention

Understanding Plagiarism: Types, Consequences, and Prevention

Imagine this scenario:  You’ve worked tirelessly on a research paper for weeks, pouring your heart and soul into every word, every argument. You submit it with a sense of accomplishment, only to receive a dreaded email from your professor accusing you of plagiarism. Your heart sinks, and panic sets in. How did this happen? What is plagiarism, and why is it such a serious offense in academia?

Plagiarism is a word that strikes fear into the hearts of students and writers everywhere. It’s a concept that has haunted classrooms and research institutions for as long as the written word has existed. But what exactly is plagiarism, and why does it matter?

At its core, plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s work, ideas, or intellectual property without proper attribution or permission, and passing it off as your own. It’s a breach of trust, a violation of academic integrity, and a practice that carries severe consequences. In the realm of academia, where originality and the exchange of ideas are highly prized, plagiarism is considered one of the gravest sins one can commit.

In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to demystify plagiarism. We will delve into its various forms, explore the dire consequences it can bring, and most importantly, equip you with the knowledge and tools to prevent it. Whether you’re a student navigating the challenges of academic writing or a professional seeking to maintain ethical standards in your work, understanding plagiarism is crucial.

Types of Plagiarism

Plagiarism is not a one-size-fits-all offense; it comes in various forms, each with its own distinct characteristics and degrees of severity. In this section, we will explore these different types of plagiarism, shedding light on what they entail and providing examples to help you recognize them. Understanding the nuances of plagiarism is the first step toward preventing it.

Direct Plagiarism:

• Definition: Direct plagiarism is the most blatant form, where one copies someone else’s work verbatim without any form of attribution or quotation marks.
• Example: Imagine you’re writing a research paper, and you come across a compelling passage in a book. Instead of paraphrasing or quoting the passage properly, you simply copy and paste it into your paper, presenting it as your own.

Self-Plagiarism:

• Definition: Self-plagiarism, also known as autoplagiarism, occurs when an individual reuses their own previously published work without proper citation.
• Example: Let’s say you wrote an excellent essay for one course and decide to submit the same essay for another class without the consent of both professors.

Mosaic Plagiarism (Patchwriting):

• Definition: Mosaic plagiarism involves taking phrases, sentences, or ideas from various sources and weaving them into your own work, often with some minor changes.
• Example: You’re struggling to articulate an argument, so you borrow sentences from multiple online sources, altering a few words here and there, and present it as your original composition.

Accidental Plagiarism:

• Definition: Accidental plagiarism occurs when a writer unintentionally fails to properly cite a source due to a lack of awareness or oversight.
• Example: While conducting research, you take notes but forget to mark which ideas came from your sources. Later, you include these ideas in your paper without attributing them.

Paraphrasing Without Attribution:

• Definition: This form of plagiarism involves rephrasing someone else’s work but failing to provide proper citation, making it appear as if the ideas are your own.
• Example: You read a scholarly article, understand the main points, and rewrite them in your own words without acknowledging the original source.

Inadequate or Incorrect Citation:

• Definition: Even when attempting to cite sources, one can commit plagiarism by not following the correct citation style or by omitting essential information.
• Example: You include a list of sources at the end of your paper but fail to use in-text citations throughout the document, leaving readers uncertain about the source of each idea.

Recognizing these various forms of plagiarism is essential for maintaining academic integrity. It’s important to note that ignorance or lack of intent is not a valid defense against plagiarism charges. In the academic world, the responsibility to properly attribute and cite sources rests squarely on the shoulders of the writer.

Common Causes of Plagiarism

Understanding the underlying causes of plagiarism is crucial because it allows us to address the root issues and develop strategies to prevent it. Plagiarism doesn’t always stem from a malicious intent to deceive; often, it can be the result of various factors that writers face. Let’s explore some common causes of plagiarism:

Time Constraints:

One of the leading causes of plagiarism is the pressure of deadlines. Students and writers often find themselves overwhelmed with multiple assignments, leaving them with limited time to conduct thorough research and compose original work. In such situations, the temptation to plagiarize can be strong.

Lack of Research Skills:

Inadequate research skills can lead to plagiarism. When individuals struggle to find relevant sources or understand complex topics, they may resort to copying from existing material rather than synthesizing information properly.

Fear of Failure:

The fear of failure can push students and writers to take shortcuts. They worry that their own ideas or writing won’t meet expectations, so they turn to plagiarism as a way to secure better grades or approval.

Ignorance of Proper Citation:

Some individuals genuinely don’t understand the importance of proper citation or how to do it correctly. They may not be aware of the various citation styles, or they might not know how to attribute sources effectively.

Poor Time Management:

Procrastination and poor time management can lead to last-minute rushes to complete assignments. In such situations, students may be more inclined to cut corners, including copying and pasting content.

Cultural Differences:

International students, in particular, may face challenges in understanding the expectations of academic writing in a new culture. Differences in citation practices and academic conventions can contribute to unintentional plagiarism.

Technological Ease:

With the internet at our fingertips, it’s easier than ever to copy and paste content from various sources. The convenience of online access can tempt individuals to plagiarize without thinking about the consequences.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing plagiarism requires a combination of education, awareness, and practical strategies. Here are some effective prevention strategies to help you maintain academic integrity:

Time Management and Planning:

• Start early: Begin your assignments well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
• Create a schedule: Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and allocate time for research, writing, and revision.

Develop Strong Research Skills:

• Learn how to find credible sources: Familiarize yourself with academic databases, libraries, and search engines.
• Take effective notes: Keep detailed records of your sources, including publication dates and page numbers.

Understand Citation Styles:

• Familiarize yourself with the citation style required by your institution (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago).
• Use citation guides and templates to ensure accuracy.

Proper Paraphrasing and Summarizing:

• When using someone else’s ideas, practice paraphrasing and summarizing effectively.
• Always provide proper citations when paraphrasing.

Use Plagiarism Detection Tools:

• Utilize plagiarism detection software like Turnitin or Grammarly to check your work for potential issues.
• Review the reports generated by these tools to identify areas that need improvement.

Seek Guidance and Feedback:

• Don’t hesitate to ask your professors or instructors for clarification on citation or academic writing guidelines.
• Seek peer review and feedback on your drafts to catch any unintentional plagiarism.

Learn from Examples:

• Study well-crafted academic papers to understand how citations and references are properly integrated.
• Use reputable style guides and manuals as references for citation.

Promote Academic Integrity Education:

• Encourage educational institutions to offer workshops and resources on academic integrity.
• Engage in discussions about plagiarism and its consequences with peers and colleagues.

By implementing these prevention strategies and addressing the common causes of plagiarism, you can significantly reduce the risk of unintentional or deliberate plagiarism in your academic and professional work. Remember that maintaining academic integrity not only benefits you but also contributes to the credibility and trustworthiness of the academic community as a whole.

Academic Integrity and Education

Academic integrity is the foundation upon which the educational system stands. It encompasses a set of values and principles that promote honesty, ethical behavior, and the responsible use of information. In this section, we will delve into the vital role of academic integrity in preventing plagiarism and how education plays a pivotal part in fostering a culture of integrity within academic institutions.

The Significance of Academic Integrity:

Academic integrity is not limited to avoiding plagiarism; it extends to encompass the broader ethical framework that guides educational and research endeavors. Here’s why academic integrity is of paramount importance:

• Preservation of Trust: Trust is the linchpin of any educational institution. Upholding academic integrity ensures that trust remains unbroken among students, faculty, and researchers.
• Promotion of Fairness: Fairness is a cornerstone of academic integrity. It guarantees that every student and scholar has an equal opportunity to succeed based on their own merits and efforts.
• Stimulation of Learning: Academic integrity fosters an environment where learning and critical thinking thrive. It encourages students to engage deeply with their subjects, analyze information critically, and construct their understanding of the material.
• Enhancement of Credibility: Research and academic publications are respected and trusted worldwide because they adhere to rigorous standards of academic integrity. This credibility benefits the entire scholarly community.
• Nurturing Ethical Values: Upholding academic integrity helps individuals develop ethical values that extend beyond the classroom, shaping their character and guiding their behavior in their future professional lives.

The Role of Education in Promoting Academic Integrity:

Education serves as the most potent tool for instilling a culture of academic integrity. Let’s explore how educational institutions and individuals can promote and uphold this vital principle:

Clear Expectations:

Educational institutions should establish clear guidelines regarding what constitutes academic misconduct, including plagiarism. Faculty members should communicate their expectations for original work and proper citation to students.

Courses on Academic Integrity:

Many universities offer courses or workshops specifically focused on academic integrity. These educational initiatives cover the importance of academic honesty, citation styles, and plagiarism prevention techniques.

Honor Codes and Pledges:

Some academic institutions implement honor codes or require students to pledge their commitment to academic integrity. These codes create a shared sense of responsibility for ethical behavior.

Awareness Programs:

Regular awareness programs and campaigns serve as reminders to both students and faculty about the significance of academic integrity. These initiatives often include discussions, guest lectures, and seminars on the topic.

Engagement of Faculty:

Faculty members play a pivotal role in promoting academic integrity. They should serve as role models of ethical behavior, actively discuss issues related to plagiarism in the classroom, and provide resources to help students enhance their writing and citation skills.

Incorporate Ethical Discussions:

Incorporating discussions on academic integrity into the curriculum can make students more engaged with the topic and help them understand its relevance to their academic journey and beyond.

Plagiarism Detection Tools:

Educational institutions can provide access to plagiarism detection tools and encourage students to use them for self-checking assignments before submission. These tools help students identify and rectify potential plagiarism issues.

Peer Mentoring:

Encouraging peer mentoring and collaborative learning environments can create a supportive community where students help each other understand and practice academic integrity principles.

Feedback and Consequences:

Faculty members should provide timely and constructive feedback on academic assignments, including discussions of plagiarism when detected. It’s essential to clearly communicate the consequences of academic misconduct to deter future violations.

The Student’s Responsibility:

Students themselves play a significant role in upholding academic integrity. Here are steps they can take to contribute to a culture of honesty and ethical conduct:

• Learn Citation Styles: Invest time in mastering the specific citation style required by your institution, and apply it consistently in your work.
• Practice Time Management: Plan your assignments well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush, which can increase the temptation to plagiarize due to time constraints.
• Seek Guidance: Do not hesitate to seek guidance from professors, librarians, or writing centers when you have questions about proper citation or academic writing practices.
• Use Plagiarism Detection Tools: Utilize plagiarism detection tools to check your work before submission to ensure it is free from unintended similarities with existing sources.
• Collaborate Ethically: When collaborating with peers or working in groups, make sure you understand the rules and expectations regarding shared work and proper attribution of sources.
• Respect Originality: Always respect the intellectual property of others. Give credit where credit is due, whether it’s for ideas, data, or direct quotations from a source.

Overall, academic integrity is the bedrock upon which educational and scholarly communities stand. Upholding it ensures that education is fair, credible, and built upon a foundation of honesty and ethical conduct. Through education, awareness, and individual responsibility, a culture of academic integrity can be cultivated and maintained. Upholding academic integrity is not just a responsibility; it’s a commitment to ethical learning and research, ultimately benefiting both students and society at large.

In our exploration of plagiarism, we’ve unearthed a critical issue that not only threatens the credibility of academic work but also challenges the very essence of education itself. Plagiarism is not a mere transgression; it’s a breach of trust, an ethical violation, and a reflection of a broader societal struggle with integrity. Our journey through the types, consequences, and prevention of plagiarism has underscored the urgency of addressing this issue head-on.

Plagiarism’s manifestations are diverse, from blatant acts of copying to subtler forms of appropriation. The consequences are far-reaching, affecting not only individuals but also the institutions and communities to which they belong. It erodes trust, undermines fairness, and tarnishes the reputation of those who engage in it.

Preventing plagiarism demands more than just a set of rules and tools. It requires a cultural shift that prioritizes originality, critical thinking, and ethical conduct. While education plays a central role in promoting academic integrity, it cannot operate in isolation. It necessitates the active involvement of students, educators, researchers, and institutions alike.

Academic integrity, the cornerstone of our educational systems, is at risk. It demands our unwavering commitment. Students must recognize their responsibility to uphold ethical standards in their work. Educators must not only impart knowledge but also instill a deep sense of ethics. Institutions must foster an environment where integrity thrives, backed by clear expectations, robust support systems, and consequences that deter misconduct. Yet, the battle against plagiarism extends beyond the classroom. It’s a societal challenge that implicates a culture obsessed with convenience, shortcuts, and the relentless pursuit of success at any cost. As such, addressing plagiarism requires a multifaceted approach that encompasses not just education but also the broader societal values that shape our behaviors.

Discover Academia Writing , where we provide ethical research and writing services that uphold academic integrity. Explore our offerings to support your educational and research journey while maintaining honesty and ethical standards.

By Erin Cross

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