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Plagiarism 101
What is Plagiarism?
Plagiarism comes from the Latin word for “kidnapper.” It is the act of intentionally, or unintentionally, using or passing off someone else’s words, ideas, or images as your own. With the Internet, it is easy to cut and paste information. Even if you rewrite the text in your own words, if you don’t give proper credit, you are stealing and it is wrong. Plagiarism is a form of intellectual theft and is a serious offence with consequences.
This includes:
- handing in someone else’s work (whole or part);
- giving or selling someone else your work (whole or part);
- rewriting ideas in your own words, but forgetting to cite your sources;
- using someone else’s ideas (from an interview for example) without giving that person credit;
- using graphics from the Internet without stating the sources;
- handing in something in 2 courses without the permission of the teachers;
Why do people plagiarise?
People often plagiarize because they do not:
- record, paraphrase, or summarize information effectively;
- know how to cite sources properly;
- handle stress and perceptions of competition well;
- manage time and plan work well;
- understand what plagiarism is.
Next > How can I avoid plagiarism?
Last updated: April 4, 2008