The Basics

Introduction

Just like we have resources in our lives and resources on our campus to help us succeed, we also use them in our writing (or any project for that matter). These are typically referred to as sources, and incorporating them into your writing will help solidify your arguments.

Types of Sources

There are type different types of information sources: physical items, digital items, and audio/visual items. Some items (such as books and eBooks) may fall under multiple categories.

No matter the format or type of information, you must adhere to the values of Academic Honesty when using outside information.

Clicking on a source type in the chart below will link you to examples.

Purpose of Sources

Using sources help with the following with your writing and other projects:

• They show the instructor your own understanding of the topic you are writing about.

• They build credibility in what you are presenting in your writing by incorporating the perspectives and studies of others.

• They create depth to your arguments, making them stronger.

Academic Honesty & Plagiarism

The most important thing to remember when you are using quotes is to not plagiarize, or copy someone else's words and pretend they are your own words. This is stealing, and you will be caught since Canvas has Turnitin.com built into your assignments.

You can borrow other people's words to put them into your own essay, but you must cite them to give credit to the original author.

This is similar to giving photo credit on Instagram or Retweeting on Twitter. You are giving credit to the original poster without stealing their posts.

Avoiding Plagiarism

At the beginning of this term, you were asked to complete an Avoid Plagiarism tutorial. Here is the link if you would like a refresher.

You may also use these four tips to help you avoid plagiarism.