What is plagiarism
You commit plagiarism when in any written work you use another person’s words, ideas or opinions without
acknowledging them as being from that other person. You do this when you copy the work word-by-word
(verbatim); or submit someone else’s work in a slightly altered form (such as changing a word with one meaning to
another word with the same meaning); and you do not acknowledge the borrowing in a way that shows from whom
or where you took the words, ideas or reasoning.
You must provide references whenever you quote (use the exact words), paraphrase (use the ideas of another
person, in your own words) or summarise (use the main points of another’s opinions, theories or data).
It does not matter how little of the other person’s work you use (whether it is one sentence or a whole
paragraph), or whether you do it unintentionally or on purpose. If you present the work as your own without
acknowledging that person, you are committing theft. Because of this, plagiarism is regarded as a very serious
contravention of the University’s rules which can lead to expulsion from the University.
Even if another student gives you permission to use one of his or her past assignments or other research to hand
in as your own, you are not allowed to do it. It is another form of plagiarism. You are also not allowed to let
anybody copy your work with the intention of passing it off as his/her work.
While academic staff must teach you about systems of referencing, and how to avoid plagiarism, you too need to
take responsibility for your own academic career. Speak to your lecturer if you are at any stage uncertain as to
what is required.
Information brochures on this topic are also available at the Academic Information Services.
Last updated: 27 Feb 2012
