Last Updated on November 27, 2023 by Elidge Staff

UNAM Library | Understanding Plagiarism: How to Avoid it and Its Consequences- African Black girl student using laptop standing in college library.
UNAM Library | Understanding Plagiarism: How to Avoid it and Its Consequences- African Black girl student using laptop standing in college library.

UNAM Library | Understanding Plagiarism: How to Avoid it and Its Consequences

Plagiarism is a serious academic offense that students need to be aware of and avoid at all costs. In this tutorial, we will delve into the concept of plagiarism, discuss strategies to prevent it, and explore the consequences that students may face if found guilty of plagiarism.

What is Plagiarism? UNAM Library Guide

Plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s ideas, words, or work without giving them proper credit. It is essentially stealing and presenting someone else’s work as your own. Plagiarism includes both direct copying and paraphrasing without acknowledging the original source.

What is Plagiarism? UNAM Library Guide - Students in Library
What is Plagiarism? UNAM Library Guide – Students in Library

How to Avoid Plagiarism: UNAM Library Guide

To maintain academic integrity and avoid plagiarism, follow these essential guidelines:

  1. Cite Your Sources: Whenever you use information or ideas from another author, make sure to provide proper citations. This acknowledges the original creator of the information and demonstrates your respect for their work.
  2. Paraphrase Effectively: Paraphrasing involves rephrasing another author’s ideas in your own words while retaining the original meaning. When paraphrasing, ensure that you still cite the source of the information.

Understanding Referencing Styles:

Different academic disciplines require specific referencing styles. Familiarize yourself with the referencing style recommended in your course outline. Here are some common referencing styles:

  1. APA (American Psychological Association): APA style is often used in the social sciences and includes guidelines for in-text citations and references.
  2. MLA (Modern Language Association): MLA style is commonly used in humanities and liberal arts disciplines, providing guidelines for citing sources in-text and in the works cited list.
  3. Chicago Style: The Chicago Manual of Style is widely used in history, arts, and social sciences, providing guidelines for citations and bibliographies.
  4. Harvard Style: The Harvard referencing style is used across various disciplines and provides guidelines for referencing different sources.

Explore your UNAM Library website for a citation and referencing guide specific. Familiarize yourself with the guidelines relevant to your field of study.

Understanding Referencing Styles: UNAM Library Guide - Portrait of young handsome bearded African college male student in library, reading
Understanding Referencing Styles: UNAM Library Guide – Portrait of young handsome bearded African college male student in library, reading

Consequences of Plagiarism:

Plagiarism can have severe consequences for students. Here are some potential outcomes if you are found guilty of plagiarism:

  1. Failure in Assignments: Plagiarized work may result in failing grades for the specific assignment or project.
  2. Grade Reduction or Course Failure: Plagiarism can lead to a significant reduction in overall grades or even failure in the entire course/module.
  3. Academic Suspension: In serious cases, students may face suspension or dismissal from the academic year.
Consequences of Plagiarism: UNAM Library Guide - Happy Black African girl student standing in university library. Portrait.
Consequences of Plagiarism: UNAM Library Guide – Happy Black African girl student standing in university library. Portrait.

Understanding what plagiarism is, how to avoid it, and the potential consequences it carries is crucial for every student. By citing your sources properly, paraphrasing effectively, and adhering to the referencing style required in your field of study, you can maintain academic integrity and excel in your academic pursuits. Remember to familiarize yourself with your university’s policies and guidelines on plagiarism to ensure compliance and avoid any unnecessary pitfalls.

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