Understanding Plagiarism and Citations

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary reason for needing to cite a source, even when paraphrasing information?

The citation process is required by all academic authorities.

Citing sources helps avoid grammatical errors.

It is a requirement for all types of writing.

Paraphrasing does not eliminate the use of someone else's ideas. (correct)

Which statement best describes the issue of using large pieces of another author's work?

It is acceptable if the work is cited.

It is permissible for informal writings.

It can be used if it supports your argument.

It is considered plagiarism, regardless of citation. (correct)

What should a writer do if they find themselves with nothing to add to a topic?

Choose another topic that allows for original contributions. (correct)

Revisit previous research and claim it as their own.

Paraphrase existing works extensively.

Copy relevant sections from other authors.

When is it acceptable to use someone else's work without modification?

It is never acceptable to use it without modification. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of acceptable content use in academic writing?

Integrating personal analysis with cited research. Signup and view all the answers

What role do novel contributions play in academic writing?

They enhance the credibility of the paper. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about plagiarism is incorrect?

Plagiarism only occurs in formal academic writing. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus when discussing plagiarism in the provided content?

Unintentional plagiarism Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements requires a citation according to the provided guidelines?

'All raw chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees.' Signup and view all the answers

What is a good rule of thumb for determining if citation is necessary?

If the information was found using a search engine. Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone commit unintentional plagiarism?

They are unaware of the need to cite sources. Signup and view all the answers

In the example provided, why does the statement about finances require citation?

It references a specific year and data point. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a common misconception about what requires citing sources?

All widely known facts are common knowledge. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of plagiarism does the Merriam-Webster definition emphasize?

The act of stealing someone else's ideas. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of information can be generally classified as common knowledge?

Widely accepted historical facts. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Defining Plagiarism

Plagiarism is stealing and presenting the ideas or words of another as your own.
It also means using another's work without giving credit.

Unintentional Plagiarism

Accidentally plagiarizing is possible, especially in writing.

Citation Examples

Statements of fact need citations.
Examples:
- "Depression affects 1 in 10 adults in the United States."
- "All raw chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees."
Opinions don't need citations.
Example: "It felt like it was at least 90 degrees outside yesterday!"

Determining Need for Citation

Ask yourself:
- How did I learn this information? If from another source, cite it.
- Am I presenting it as a fact? If yes, cite it.
- Did searching reveal other published sources with similar ideas? If yes, cite them; this includes ideas encountered a while ago.

Opinion with Factual Support

Opinions based on factual information from another source still require citations.
Example: "I feel that one class that should be mandatory in all colleges is finances. This is due to the fact that in 2011 alone, the average student loan debt was over $21,000." (Needs citation, even if an opinion, because of the fact about debt)

Paraphrasing and Citation

Paraphrasing another's work still requires citation.
Citing the source is needed even for evaluation, critique or dismissal of another's work.

Large Sections and Citation

Taking large sections of another's work, even with citation, is considered plagiarism.
Saying "the author said it all, I have nothing to add" or "previous research is enough" is unacceptable in academia.
For academic papers, adding original ideas and analysis is essential.

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Description

This quiz covers the definition of plagiarism, including both intentional and unintentional forms. It delves into the importance of citations and how to determine when they are needed in writing. Test your knowledge on proper citation practices and ensuring originality in your work.