📘 Student Guide: How to Avoid Plagiarism
In academic work, referencing other authors’ ideas is normal — it’s part of research. But plagiarism is a serious violation that the University takes very seriously. Even accidental plagiarism can have consequences. That’s why it’s important to understand what it is and how to avoid it.
❓ What is Plagiarism?
Plagiarism is the use of someone else’s ideas, texts, images, or results without proper attribution. This can include:
🔴 Clear Violations:
- Purchasing or commissioning work from a third party
- Copying large parts of a text without referencing the source
- Translating someone else’s text without indicating where it came from
- Reusing your own previous work without acknowledging it
🟠 Less Obvious Violations:
- Paraphrasing another author’s text without citation
- Using someone’s idea without giving them credit
- Using diagrams, tables, or images without citing the source
- Receiving outside help without acknowledging it in your work
✅ How to Avoid Plagiarism?
- Separate your sources:
- Mark in your notes what is a quote, what is paraphrased, and what are your own ideas
- You can use labels like: “Q” — quote, “P” — paraphrased, “M” — mine
- Use proper referencing:
- Follow the required citation style (e.g., national standard or APA)
- All sources must be included in the bibliography
- Paraphrase properly:
- Do not copy sentence structures from the source
- Even when paraphrasing, always cite the source
- Quote correctly:
- Short quotes — in quotation marks
- Long quotes (more than 6 lines) — formatted as a separate block
- Always include a citation after the quote
- Don’t copy mindlessly:
- Never paste content from sources without proper formatting and citation
📌 Remember:
- ✅ Cite all ideas, data, or visuals that are not your own
- 🚫 Do not purchase or commission work
- 🚫 Do not use text-generating software
- ✅ Complete assignments independently or clearly state who helped
Upholding academic integrity is not just a university requirement — it’s also a sign of respect for others’ work and an investment in your own professional growth.
Need help? Contact your instructor, supervisor, or the IEU Department of Educational Quality Assurance.