Understanding and Avoiding Plagiarism

 

Plagiarism is adopting others' work without crediting the source. This pertains to both using others' texts as well as other depictions.

 

Plagiarism has been committed when "Texts from another person are wholly or partially used, word for word or almost word for word and presented as one's own academic work." This behavior "contradicts not only good academic practice, but is also a form of intellectual property theft and thus a copyright infrigement." (Resolution of the German Association of University Professors and Lecturers from July 17, 2002)

 

How can plagiarism be avoided?

Formal citation rules protect against plagiarism. You should be familiar with the guidelines for good academic practice and citation practices and standards in your respective field.