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What is Plagiarism?

When should you cite? You should cite your source whenever you quote, paraphrase, summarize, or otherwise refer to the work of another. You even must cite things like images, data, and tables that you use from others.

Common Knowledge

Generally, you do not need to cite information that is common knowledge. For example, you would not need a citation to say that there are seven continents on our planet.

Keep in mind that common knowledge is contextual. If you are in a nursing class, you can assume more common knowledge about medicine than in an English literature class.

Plagiarism

A common example of plagiarism is when you do not cite a source at all, but there are other examples too.

Plagiarism is also:

  • Copying passages verbatim and failing to put the direct quote inside quotation marks;
  • Mixing passages from different sources that are too close to the original sources;
  • Mixing up sources so the wrong citation is used, or including citations but not making it clear which citation goes to what piece of information.

In short, plagiarism is anytime that the reader cannot easily and accurately tell when a fact or idea came from a source other than yourself.

Most plagiarism is unintentional! Unintentional plagiarism is more likely to happen when you:

  • Are not taking clear notes. It is very easy to mix up sources if you did not note exactly where you got a piece of information from.

  • Are not giving yourself enough time to complete an assignment. Waiting to write a paper or other assignment last minute means less time to double check your work for citation errors. Preparation and time management are important.

  • Do not know or understand the rules of a citation style, such as APA. Some citation styles are very complex and difficult to learn when you are first getting to know them.

When in Doubt, Ask

If you are unsure if something is considered academic dishonesty, just ask! You can check your syllabus, refer to departmental policies, and/or ask your instructor.

The Keiser University Catalog will also include a definition of academic dishonesty on campus.