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Avoiding Plagiarism

A guide that explains what plagiarism is and when to cite sources

How to Get Library Assistance

There are many ways you can get library assistance:

  1. Fill out an Ask a Librarian Form
  2. Set up a research appointment 
  3. Call the library at 715-425-3321
  4. Ask for help at the front desk in the library

Citing Sources

Need help with Citations? Check out our Citation, Style and Writing Guides.

The UWRF Writing Center is available to help you format your citations and can provide other writing assistance, as well. 

Plagiarism Explained

What is Plagiarism?

Plagiarism is when you use someone else's words or ideas without giving them credit. 

How do you avoid plagiarism?

Whenever you use the words or ideas of someone else you must cite where you got that information from. If you are directly quoting someone, you must use quotation marks, as well. Note that even when you paraphrase what someone else said (or wrote), you must still cite that person because you are using their ideas. 

So when don't you have to cite?

  • When you are stating common knowledge. (Example: The English alphabet contains 26 letters.)
  • When you are stating your own thoughts and ideas.

When in doubt, cite it! 

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