The Different Forms of Plagiarism

Plagiarism can take several forms - it is not always as clear as simply 'copying and pasting', albeit without referencing or critical use, this is plagiarism. It is paramount for us to ensure that we highlight different forms to make you aware of a variety of actions that can constitute plagiarism.

Examples of different forms of plagiarism:

Direct - This is the act whereby a student takes a piece of writing (anything from a small sentence to a whole article) and passes it off as their own without any referencing, simply as their own writing and work. 

Collusion - This is when two or more students consciously or purposefully collaborate in the preparation and production of work, and then subsequently submits an identical, or largely similar, form and/or is represented by each to be the product of his or her individual efforts. 

Paraphrasing - This is a very common form of plagiarism; it occurs when the use of someone else’s writing with some minor changes in the sentences and using it as one’s own. Even if the words differ, the original idea remains the same and plagiarism occurs.

'Self' or 'Auto' Plagiarism - This happens when a student copies and pastes, reuses or resubmits work they have previously submitted for an assignment - whether it is a small section, or the whole assignment itself. Whilst we appreciate it is your own work, duplicating your own work for several submissions is not permitted and is considered plagiarism.

Accidental Plagiarism - Whilst we recognise that this may not be a conscious or purposeful form, it is important to note that accidental plagiarism is still considered an act of plagiarism. For instance, if a student does not reference correctly, or misplaces work, or has unintentional phrasing that becomes plagiarism, it will still be highlighted and investigated.

We highly advise all of our students to consult Study Skills Day 5: Academic Best Practice for further information and help.