You have now learned what plagiarism is and how to avoid it. In this exercise, you will apply that knowledge to real examples of source use.

Below are seven different ways of using sources in academic writing. Read each statement, consider whether or not you think this is acceptable source use, and why/why not. Once you've done so, you can take a look at the solution at the bottom of the page.

Is this acceptable source use? Why or why not?

I copy a paragraph directly from a source without citing it in the text or including it in the reference list.
I copy a paragraph directly from one of my own previously submitted assignments without citing it in the text or including it in the reference list.
I copy a paragraph and make only minor changes, such as replacing a few words with synonyms. The source is included in the reference list, but not cited in the text.
I create a paragraph by copying sentences from the original source, omitting a few sentences, and changing the order of some words. I do not use quotation marks. The source is cited in the text and included in the reference list.
I create a paragraph by combining short phrases copied from several sources with some of my own words. All sources are included in the reference list, but only some are cited in the text.
I paraphrase a paragraph by rewriting it in my own words and making substantial changes to the language, structure, and examples. The source is cited both in the text and in the reference list.
I use a direct quotation, clearly marked with quotation marks, and cite the source (including page numbers) in the text as well as in the reference list.

Click here for solution.

Directly copying without citation