This document discusses avoiding plagiarism and properly citing sources. It defines plagiarism as using another's work without proper citation and notes there are both intentional and accidental forms. The consequences of plagiarism range from failing grades to legal punishment. It provides tips for avoiding plagiarism such as taking thorough notes, leaving time to complete assignments, and emailing citations to yourself. Guidance is given on what to cite from sources and what is considered common knowledge. Examples of plagiarized versus properly cited work are also included.

1. Avoiding Plagiarism
When And How to Document Sources?
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2. What is Plagiarism?
 The use of another’s ideas or words without properly
acknowledging the source
 Intentional
 Accidental

3. Consequences of Plagiarism
 Zero or failing grade on assignment
 Failing grade in course
 Academic probation
 Academic suspension
 Expulsion
 Termination of employment
 Loss of professional reputation
 Loss of income

4. How do I Avoid Plagiarizing?
 Document, document, document!
 Leave ample time to complete the paper
 Use note cards
 Take careful notes
 Create a user account when possible
 Email citations and articles to yourself

5. What do I Document?
 Unique words or phrases
 Paraphrases or ideas
 Information from an interview
 Charts, diagrams, illustrations or photos
 Ideas from a conversation or email

6. Is there Anything I don’t
Document?
 Your experiences, observations, or insights
 Your experimental or survey results
 Generally accepted facts
 Common knowledge

7. Common Knowledge is
 Information easily found in at least five other sources
 Information generally known to your reader

8. Plagiarized?
Real Case Studies

9. Important Notes
 Try to introduce your source with your text.
 According to Jones (2010)…
 Jones (2010) cites a number of studies….
 The findings support the work of Jones (2010)….
 Your ideas and opinions should drive your writing.
 Even if you don’t quote specific words or phrases, you must
cite your source within your writing.

10. APA Format
 Refer to the APA Style Manual, 6th edition
 Follow database links
 Refer to your LibGuide
 OWL at Purdue
 Diana Hacker
 Visit a tutor

11. References
Berndt, T. J. (2002). Friendship quality and social development. Current Directions in Psychological
Science, 11, 7-10.
Calfee, R. C., & Valencia, R. R. (1991). APA guide to preparing manuscripts for journal publication.
Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
Harlow, H. F. (1983). Fundamentals for preparing psychology journal articles. Journal of
Comparative and Physiological Psychology, 55, 893-896.
Henry, W. A., III. (1990, April 9). Making the grade in today's schools. Time, 135, 28-31.
Schultz, S. (2005, December 28). Calls made to strengthen state energy policies. The Country Today, pp.
1A, 2A.
Examples from Purdue Owl website