Here's how it works:
1. Read the source carefully: Understand the main idea and supporting points the author is making.
2. Put the information into your own words: Rewrite the source's ideas in your own language and style. Make sure you're conveying the same meaning as the original.
3. Cite the source: Even though you're not quoting directly, you still need to give credit to the original author. This can be done by using a footnote, endnote, or in-text citation.
Example:
Original source: "The use of social media has become increasingly prevalent in political campaigns, allowing candidates to directly connect with voters."
Paraphrased version: Political candidates are now utilizing social media platforms to engage with voters more effectively, creating a direct line of communication. (Smith, 2023).
Important: Paraphrasing doesn't mean just changing a few words. You need to fully rephrase the information in your own words, ensuring it accurately reflects the original source's meaning.