Answered By: Librarian
Last Updated: Jan 03, 2024     Views: 330

At the University of Iowa plagiarism is defined in the UI Code of Student Conduct and governed by each UI college. The University of Iowa Writing Center can help you avoid plagiarism in your writing.

Definition:  Plagiarism is the act of presenting someone else's ideas, words, or work as your own without proper attribution. Among other things, it includes copying and pasting from sources, paraphrasing without giving credit, and submitting someone else's work as your own.

Why does it matter? Plagiarism undermines the principles of academic integrity, honesty, and fairness. It diminishes the value of education by preventing individuals from demonstrating their true understanding and skills. Colleges and universities take a strong stance against plagiarism, as it compromises the learning process. The consequences for plagiarism and/or cheating can vary. Within your future career, it could cost you time, money, and even your reputation.

How do I avoid plagiarism in my writing?

 

  • Take detailed notes: Keep track of all your sources and the relevant information as you conduct research.

  • Cite your sources: Whenever you use someone else's ideas, quotes, or information, provide proper citations using a recognized citation style (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc.).

  • Paraphrase with care: If you're rephrasing information from a source, ensure that you still maintain the original meaning and credit the source appropriately.

  • Use quotation marks: When directly quoting a source, use quotation marks and provide a citation to indicate the exact words are not your own.

  • Manage your time effectively: Procrastination can lead to rushed assignments and increase the likelihood of unintentional plagiarism. Plan your work in advance to avoid last-minute desperation.

If you ever are in doubt about your writing, reach out to your instructor for guidance.

 

 

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