Ways to Avoid Plagiarism

With the easy availability of various research and academic papers over the internet and other
sources, students and researchers are tempted to fall into the plagiarism trap. It is advisable for
students or researchers to refrain from plagiarising while writing a research or academic papers.
In order to avoid plagiarism either intentional or accidental, the following measures can be
adopted
Analyzing the source of information

In order to, better understand the concepts and theories, students and researchers take the help of
various written materials available online, libraries archives and other sources. However, when
writing, it is important to critically analyze the source of information and give due credit to the
original author(s) whenever the writer borrows their works or ideas. By analyzing the source of
information, students can identify and give accurate references to the legitimate writers and also
avoid possible plagiarisms.
Research citation

Citation is one of the best methods of avoiding plagiarism. There are many document formatting
guidelines such as Harvard, MLA, APA, Oscola and many others which are discussed in detail in
the later chapters of this paper. Citation is a simple process and it usually involves the addition of
author(s) and date of publication that is used by the student/researcher in his own work. Citations
used in the preparation of a written document must also be included in the reference list or
bibliography given at the end of the document (research or academic documents). Accurate
citations and references not only help the students or researchers avoid the problem of plagiarism
but also increase the validity and authenticity of the written documents.
Extensive research

Another method of avoiding plagiarism is to do extensive research. It helps the writer develop a
greater understanding of the topic and subsequently present own point of view in their own
words.
Use your own language

Copy and pasting information from websites or other sources is considered plagiarism. To avoid
plagiarism, it is advisable to use one’s own language, also, using proper quotations, citations,
and references wherever required in the written document while taking help from any existing
material. While working on an assignment, it is important to keep track of one’s own ideas and
ideas taken from other sources (with proper citations) to avoid confusion and possible
plagiarism.
Paraphrase Wisely

Paraphrasing is one of the most common practices that tempts both students and researchers
equally. While paraphrasing it is important to use proper and logical sentence structure.
However, the overall idea of another author’s work should not be changed while paraphrasing
and genuine authors must be given adequate credit for their work.
Avoid using synonyms

One of the simplest methods students employ to write an academic paper is the use of synonyms
to avoid plagiarism detection. However, the use of synonyms not only degrades the quality of
academic writing but also reflects a poor understanding of the topic. In order to avoid this
situation, students should try to present their ideas in their own words instead of using synonyms.