The best way to avoid plagiarism is to cite your sources. Here are some tips:
- Keep track of your sources in a method that works for you
This is a major function fulfilled by your literature review, so use it to keep track of your sources
- Know when to cite a source:
Here are some questions to help you decide:
- Did you think of the idea?
Yes → Do not need to cite anything.
No→ Go on to question #2.
- Is the idea common knowledge?
Yes → Do not need to cite anything.
No → Cite the source. (Harris, 20)
- Know what sources to cite:
What to Cite |
You must cite someone else's
words you quote
words you summarize
words you paraphrase
idea (interpretation, opinion, conclusion)
data
graph
photograph
drawing
table of information
experiment
example
unique concept
apt phrase
expression of common knowledge
solution to a problem
speech
video source (film, TV, etc.)
the structure or sequencing of facts, ideas, or arguments
|
You do not have to cite your own
words
idea (interpretation, opinion, conclusion)
data
graph
photograph
drawing
table of information
experiment
example
unique concept
apt phrase
expression of common knowledge
solution to a problem
|
(table from Harris, 18)
Harris, Robert. A. Using Sources Effectively: Strengthening Your Writing and Avoiding Plagiarism. Los Angeles: Pyrczak Publishing, 2002.
Adapted from the L.V. Johnson Library, Plagiarism, Copyright & Fair Use