Plagiarism is defined in the Wagner College Student Handbook as: “the presentation or submission of the work, words, or ideas of another without citation or credits, as your own work.” By failing to cite a source, or by citing it improperly, you may find yourself in danger of facing charges of academic dishonesty. It is therefore essential that you cite all of your sources accurately with each paper.

The iron rule of citation is this: “If you got the idea from someone else, give them credit.” This includes not just quotes, but paraphrasing---just the idea itself, put in your own words. Be especially careful when paraphrasing. To borrow even three words not your own--and even the author’s original sentence structure--without acknowledgment, is plagiarism.

The format for citing sources in a paper will vary depending on which type of documentation your professor requires—MLA, APA, ASA, CBE, ASA, etc.—but your responsibility as a writer remains the same. If you’re having trouble with a particular form of citation, go to the appropriate web page, look it up in your writing manual, or come to a WIT for help.