Writing

How to avoid plagiarism

Most plagiarism is accidental — a missing citation or a too-close paraphrase. Here’s how to stay clear of it.

The three ways to use a source

Quote — use the exact words in quotation marks, with a citation. Best for precise wording or definitions; use sparingly.
Paraphrase — restate one idea fully in your own words and sentence structure, with a citation.
Summarise — condense a longer passage into the key point, in your own words, with a citation.

The rule of thumb: if the idea, data or wording isn’t yours, cite it — even when you paraphrase.

The traps

Patchwriting (swapping a few synonyms) is still plagiarism. So is forgetting the citation on a paraphrase, and self-plagiarism (reusing your own submitted work without permission). Read the source, then write the idea from memory in your own words to avoid copying its structure.

The common-knowledge exception

You don’t need to cite widely known, undisputed facts. But if a fact is specific, surprising or could be disputed, cite where you found it. When unsure, cite — it’s never wrong to give credit.

Frequently asked questions

What counts as plagiarism?

Using someone else’s words, ideas, data or structure without crediting them — whether you meant to or not. Copying, close paraphrasing without a citation, and reusing your own past work without permission all count.

Do I cite when I paraphrase?

Yes. Putting an idea in your own words still requires a citation, because the idea isn’t yours. Only quoting needs quotation marks and a citation.

What is ‘common knowledge’ that I don’t cite?

Widely known, undisputed facts (e.g. “water boils at 100°C at sea level”). If it’s specific, surprising, or arguable, cite it.

Will paraphrasing avoid plagiarism on its own?

No — swapping a few words is “patchwriting” and still counts. True paraphrasing rewrites the idea fully and includes a citation.

These guides explain the current editions in plain language and are a study aid, not official style manuals. For exact rules and edge cases, check your assignment brief and the official APA, MLA or Chicago guidance — and when in doubt, ask your instructor.