Definition: Plagiarize (verb)

What is plagiarism?

• Using ideas, words, or a creation without crediting the original source
• Passing off someone else's ideas, words, or creation as your own
• Presenting as new an idea or product created by someone else.

More bluntly plagiarism is theft and it goes against the US Copyright law and the USFSP Code of Conduct.

How can you avoid plagiarism?

Plagiarism can easily be avoided -- just cite where you got your information. Don't be bashful, boast about your sources! Most instructors like or require that you to consult relevant books and articles for your papers – so let them know where you got your information.