The essence of good writing is originality. When composing your work, it's essential to interpret and explain other people's ideas or results, citing them appropriately. Your task is to convey the relevance of these external ideas to your argument, rather than simply replicating what you've read. It's advisable to avoid the use of 'cut and paste' methods, as these techniques can encourage the exact replication of the original text, leading to potential plagiarism.
It's crucial not to limit yourself to just one source when writing. Engaging with ideas from a plethora of sources not only enriches your work but also indicates that you have conducted extensive research. It allows you to formulate your own unique ideas and perspectives based on your findings. Keep in mind that important sources are not confined to one format - they can be found in both print and electronic formats.
Developing a distinct writing style can lend authenticity and credibility to your work. Aim to cultivate a style that is characterised by clarity and conciseness. Using another author's words verbatim can be conspicuous and may raise red flags for plagiarism. By creating your unique voice in your writing, you can ensure that your work stands out and is recognised for its originality.
Taking meticulous notes from your sources is an effective strategy to prevent unintentional plagiarism. When referencing from your sources, remember to use quotation marks for direct quotes and always document your sources. This practice will not only help you avoid inadvertent plagiarism but also simplify your task when compiling your references during the writing process. Tools such as Scribbr can be invaluable for tracking your references and maintaining a well-organised citation list.
If you choose to directly quote an author, it's imperative that you enclose the quote in quotation marks. Direct quotes should be used sparingly and should not consist of large blocks of text. Use them strategically to identify key ideas or to underscore the source of a particular idea you're incorporating in your work. Always remember to attribute another person's ideas if you're using them in your work - this is not just a good scholarly practice, but also a mark of respect for the intellectual labour of others.