When it comes to avoiding plagiarism, it is important to rewrite information in your own words and provide proper citations. Plagiarism is the act of using someone else's work or ideas without giving them credit. To avoid plagiarism, follow these steps:
Understand the information: Read and comprehend the original content before attempting to rewrite it. Make sure you grasp the main points and concepts.
Rewrite in your own words: Express the information using your unique writing style and language. Use synonyms, different sentence structures, and alternative phrasing to present the content in an original manner.
Attribute the original source: After rewriting, give credit to the original author or source by providing a citation. Include the author's name, the title of the work, publication date, and any other relevant details, depending on the citation style you are using (e.g. OSCOLA, APA, MLA).
Use quotation marks for direct quotes: If you want to include a specific phrase or sentence from the original work, enclose it in quotation marks and provide a citation for the source. This shows that you are directly quoting the author's words.
Paraphrase and summarise: Rather than copying large chunks of text, aim to paraphrase and summarise the information in your own words. This demonstrates your understanding of the material and helps avoid plagiarism. Check out our Law Exam Guide to find out how to paraphrase effectively.
Be meticulous with citations: Ensure that you follow the appropriate citation format consistently throughout your work. Double-check your reference list or bibliography to ensure accuracy.
Remember, providing proper citations not only avoids plagiarism but also acknowledges the intellectual property of others and allows readers to access the original source for further information.
