Plagiarism means presenting someone else’s work as your own without giving proper credit to the original author. In academic writing, plagiarism involves using words, ideas, or information from a source without including a citation. Plagiarism can have serious consequences, even when it’s done accidentally..
Here are some important points every student should know about plagiarism:
- Severity Levels of Plagiarism:
- Mild: When a source is cited in the text but left out of the reference list, or when quotation marks are omitted around a quote. The likely consequence is a grade penalty or an automatic zero.
- Moderate: Involves copying text from a source with a few words changed or paraphrasing a source without proper citation. The consequence may be failing grade for the course.
- Severe: When a patchwork of different texts is passed off as original work or when an entire paper is written by someone else. Consequences can include academic probation or expulsion.
- High School and College Applications:
- Plagiarism can also impact high school students and college applicants. Many high schools use plagiarism checkers, and colleges treat plagiarism seriously. Admissions officers may disregard an application if they find any part of it has been plagiarized.
- Why Plagiarism Is Serious:
- Dishonesty: Plagiarism indicates a lack of honesty about one’s work.
- Harm to Others: It harms the original authors whose work is stolen.
- Learning Hindrance: When you plagiarize, your own creativity and learning process are hindered.
Remember, even accidental plagiarism can have consequences. Familiarize yourself with your institution’s plagiarism policy and always give credit where it’s due!