Choosing a Topic

Researching the Topic

Writing the Paper

Building the Bibliography

Writing for Specific Purposes

Writing the Paper

Quotations, Paraphrasing, and Plagiarism

Quotations

Use direct quotes when you wish to use another person's words in your paper. It is important to use direct quotations sparingly. Generally, you should use direct quotes when you need to include statements that are historically important or famous, or when the phrase of the original material is difficult to rephrase and expresses crucial information succinctly. Keep in mind that you must use quotation marks for direct quotes of one to four lines. For longer quotations, set the quoted text in italics on an indent and omit the quotation marks. Be sure to include the author and page citation with all direct quotes.

Paraphrasing

Paraphrasing involves reading another author's information and summarizing that information in your own words. In paraphrasing, it is crucial that you really formulate the information in your own words; simply substituting a few synonyms for the original author's words does not constitute paraphrasing (see note on plagiarism below). Always credit the source by including a citation at the end of your paraphrase.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism involves the use of someone else's material without acknowledgment, as if this material were your own. Plagiarism is a crime, and it is essential that you be meticulous in citing all borrowed or paraphrased material as you write so that you do not inadvertently commit plagiarism. Always include citations within your text as well as in a works cited or reference page at the end of your paper.