UWEC sculpture: An egg in a wheelbarrow.

Avoiding Plagiarism

Information for students

Karen Bronshteyn

Plagiarism occurs when someone else’s work has been copied or closely imitated. 
         Instructors hear these excuses when encountering plagiarism:
  •         I don’t know how to…   quote/paraphrase/summarize/cite.  
  •         I don't have time.
  •         Other people just use the Internet.
  • o        I didn’t know it was wrong. 

One of the most common errors is the failure to cite the source of an idea.  Citation assistance is available from the library website, but you may have to come in to use a detailed citation handbook or seek assistance from a Reference Librarian.

It isn't difficult to cite your source, it just takes a little bit of practice, and you will get quicker at it.  There are also "other people" who do it right and are writing better papers and getting better grades.  It is wrong to plagiarize.  Be a good egg.   

If you goof and are accused of plagiarizing, please see University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's Academic Misconduct Information for Students.

McIntyre Library 1001D • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Eau Claire WI 54702-4004
Phone: 715/836-5961
Questions/Comments: bronshkc@uwec.edu
Updated: November 30, 2006