First Things First . . .

What is plagiarism?

Who cares?

Why is plagiarism difficult to avoid?

Definite don'ts

What happens if you are accused?

How to Avoid Plagiarism

Use valid, credible sources for information

Take careful notes

Quoting, paraphrasing, and summarizing

Giving Credit

Papers

Presentations, websites, etc.

► Citation styles

Is it plagiarism? (interactive game)

Copyright

What's the deal with the © ?

Is it copyright infringement? (interactive game)

Citation styles

As you write your paper and prepare your bibliography (a list of the resources you used), remember that every source you use in your paper MUST be cited.  This includes books, articles, websites, graphics, charts, etc. 

If you do not cite your resources, you may be accused of plagiarism.   Why else is it important to cite your resources?

• Citations give credit to the authors of the resources you used to write your paper.  If you have used someone else's ideas, words, graphics, etc., it is important to give credit where it is due. 
  
• Citations will allow the reader to identify and locate the sources you used.  Perhaps a reader will want to read the book or article you cited for more information on the topic.
  
• Citations lend credibility and authority to your research paper or project. 

The links in the table below lead to more information and examples on the most commonly used citation styles at UMF.   If you are not sure which citation style to use for your course, check with the faculty member who is teaching it. 

History Writing Guidelines - The UMF History department offers these guidelines on writing and citation style.