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How to Avoid Plagiarism When Writing Articles On the Internet

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By ibloomdrop
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I bet this guy has lots to write about!
I bet this guy has lots to write about!
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Plagiarism can be a common problem amongst high-school or college students, but it is becoming increasingly common on the internet as well. Here are some tips to help you avoid accidentally plagiarizing another author's work when writing your own articles, reviews, news stories, and blog pages for the internet.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • an aptitude for writing
  1. Step 1

    The act of plagiarism encompasses more than simply copying or duplicating another author's original writing. Simply rearranging thoughts can also be constituted as plagiarism as well. One must be careful when writing articles, stories, and blogs for the internet. While most of us would never intentionally plagiarize, it is possible to accidentally plagiarize another writer's creation.

  2. Step 2

    It goes without saying that when you sit down to write, you've probably got an idea. If this idea is formulated by a thought or experience of which you have complete familiarity then it is likely you'll altogether avoid the act plagiarism. Your unique writing style coupled with your personal experiences should be enough to clear the way to write without concern.

  3. Step 3

    If your idea requires research, or it's a topic you aren't totally comfortable writing about, you may need to keep a few tips in mind. It's best to take short notes while reading, just to jog your memory once you get ready to write. That way, while you're creating your own unique piece, you will likely remember most of what you've read and you'll be able to interpret it with your style, and avoid restating exact thoughts conveyed by the original author.

  4. Step 4

    It is absolutely necessary that you add original ideas to your writing. Make comparisons or state ideas that you haven't previously read. The idea of writing always encompasses creativity, so use what Mother Nature gave you! Incorporate some of your own jargon in with facts about your writing topic.

  5. Step 5

    Cite sources whenever possible. Especially with statistics or quotes, it is necessary to record the original source of the facts. For example, when writing about a historical subject, it is impossible to create new historical events. It is possible, however, to refer to the original source, and/or completely rearrange a topic to incorporate your own creative flair.

  6. Step 6

    Writing is not easy, however practice moves us closer to perfecting our own individual talents. As long as your writing style is incorporated with proper spelling, and grammar that follows the basic rules, it will be appreciated by many. Follow some guidelines and use your own individual instincts to avoid potential plagiarism when writing.

Tips & Warnings
  • don't copy/paste (unless you are citing facts, quotes and original source)
  • rearrange ideas and add something original and creative
  • try to avoid topics with which you have little familiarity
  • plagiarism is a nasty business for each author involved. Never, ever plagiarize intentionally, and try your best to avoid accidentally plagiarizing another writer's work
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