Plagiarism



Why Cite Your Sources?

Citing your sources thoroughly and accurately isn't just a good idea—it's the law.

What is Plagiarism?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plagiarism is a difficult concept to define. It includes a range of actions from failure to use proper citation to wholesale cheating. A student who plagiarizes may do so unintentionally or it could be a deliberate adoption or reproduction of ideas or words or statements of another person as one’s own without acknowledgement.
(University of Minnesota)

Learn about Plagiarism.
(Valenza)

Cite Your Source: How and Why You Should Do it!video



Take a look at the Writer's Inc.
in the reference section for more information.



Back to Library Home Page
How to do Research:

When beginning your library research, start with the online card catalog. Your best bet may be to find a few general books on the subject, and then study the bibliographies in the back of the books. Oftentimes, the very best sources are found this way. You may note, as you read, that one person may be quoted repeatedly in several articles. This should tell you that this person may be an authority. (See if their name is in the catalogue.) If you run across the mention of an article while reading another article or book, go find it. Use encyclopedias, reference books, newspapers, databases, the librarians, and the World Wide Web. Research is a back-and-forth, in-and-out process, rather like the strategy of a good card game.
As you scan possible sources, make a list of sources you won't use, sources you might use, and sources you will definitely use. Make bibliography cards for the latter two right away. Photocopy all material that you might or will use--even pamphlets and personal books. This will save you time later, should you need to return to the library. If you conduct a good deal of research, the first list will help you keep up with sources you've already checked (unless you enjoy checking them three and four times).


Reasearch Tips:
1. A good tip for beginning research is to have a basic understanding of your concept first.
Try doing some inital researching to get a basic understanding or definition of your topic.
Try using an online encylopedias or a book or encyclopedia from our library.
Hint: While searching for a basic definition of your topic, keep a list of similar terms or related words that you may use later in your research.

  • Make sure you know your audience. Stick to a certain tone, whether it's formal, informal, funny, pleading, etc.
  • Be aware of the possible counter-arguments that would go against what you are trying to say. Only address these points in your essay if you have good ways to respond to them.
  • Avoid the use of personal pronouns such as "I" or "you". This takes away from your writing's professional touch.
  • Use synonyms. Having the same word over and over will place a toll on the reader's nerves. Mix it up a bit.
  • When restating, do not duplicate any sentence. Your audience will not skip over any part, so there isn't a need for stressing the same point over and over.
  • Make each sentence count. Adding extra sentences will not drive your point home. Keep the essay clear by keeping it concise.

    2. Keep a research log. This will help you keep track of where you found your information and make it easier when you cite your sources. The OHS Library has more samples of research logs if you would like to try a different one.



    • Working with your topic:
    How to narrow or broaden your topic: Learn More: Click Here!


    How to Search:


    How to avoid Plagiarism:
    A guide to paraphrasing and using quotes.




    Reference:

    The University of Minnesota, "Quick Study: Library Research Guide."
    01 Sept 1999. 6 Sep 2007 .

    Valenza, Joyce. "Plagiarism." 2000. Springfield Township High School Library. 6 Sep 2007 .