Research Guides: English Language Program (ELP): Academic integrity

Introduction to citation & plagiarism

Plagiarism is taking someone else's work, ideas, or writing and claiming it as your own. This is against VCU's Student Honor System and is a form of cheating. Students who plagiarize may fail their assignment, fail the class, or be suspended from VCU.

You can prevent plagiarism by citing your sources correctly. Watch the video below to learn more about citation.

Learn to cite your sources

In the United States, citation is an important part of writing papers and other assignments. Below you'll find resources on how and why you should cite, as well as tools that will help you cite them.

Cite My Sources and Avoid Plagiarism
This guide explains when you should cite, the parts of a citation, and how to cite.

Doing Honest Work in College
Call Number: Cabell Library Reference - Student Skills Shelf (1st floor) PN171.F56 L56 2008
This helpful guide explains the principles of academic integrity in a clear, straightforward way and shows students how to apply them in all academic situations--from paper writing and independent research to study groups and lab work. Includes a chapter on how to take good notes and use them properly in papers and assignments.
Essay Writing Skills
Call Number: Cabell Library Reference - Student Skills Shelf (1st floor) PN4500 .F67 2012
This book will help you plan your essay, assess primary and secondary sources, and make a convincing and academically sound argument. It provides guidance and advice on good research techniques, grammar and accuracy, creating an essay plan and correctly citing your sources. It also includes a range of real-life example essays and tips on how your essays are graded.
What Every Student Should Know about Avoiding Plagiarism
Call Number: Cabell Library Reference - Student Skills Shelf (1st floor) PN167 .S74 2007
Summarizing, paraphrasing, and quotation are explained, with examples. The most common types of plagiarism are discussed, and a brief guide to citing sources using both MLA and APA documentation styles is included.