Copying from a single source
If you are copying material from a single source, the following guidelines apply:
* Copying small amounts of material (e.g., a single sentence or a few phrases) is generally not considered plagiarism, as long as you properly cite the source.
* Copying larger amounts of material (e.g., a paragraph or more) is more likely to be considered plagiarism, even if you properly cite the source.
* If you are copying a significant portion of a work (e.g., more than 10%), you should always get permission from the copyright holder.
Copying from multiple sources
If you are copying material from multiple sources, the following guidelines apply:
* If you are copying small amounts of material from different sources, you can generally combine these into a single citation, as long as you properly cite each source.
* If you are copying larger amounts of material from different sources, you should create separate citations for each source.
* If you are copying a significant portion of a work (e.g., more than 10%), you should always get permission from the copyright holder for each source.
Intent of the author
The intent of the author is also an important factor in determining whether or not plagiarism has occurred. If you have deliberately copied material from another source without properly citing it, this is more likely to be considered plagiarism than if you have inadvertently done so.
Consequences of plagiarism
Plagiarism can have serious consequences, including:
* A failing grade on the assignment
* Expulsion from school
* Loss of your job
* Damage to your reputation
It is important to be aware of the risks of plagiarism and to take steps to avoid it. If you are unsure about whether or not you are plagiarizing, you should always consult with your instructor or a librarian.