Plagiarism is using someone else’s work without crediting them. It does not matter whether you do this intentionally or by mistake. If you do not credit the original, you are seen as attempting to pass the work off as your own original work. Plagiarism is against the law.
1. Copyright
“Copyright is secured automatically when you create an original work that people can see or hear such as a book, painting or music. Most works eligible for copyright protection do not require registration or other formalities, except for cinematograph films.” [1]
2. Cite
If you use someone else’s knowledge, you must summarise it in your own words and credit the original source.
3. Quote
When using someone’s exact words, you must quote the text and credit the person with a citation.
“I think there is a world market for about five computers.” Thomas J Watson, President of IBM.
References:
- South African Government (no date) Register copyright. Available at: https://www.gov.za/services/services-organisations/intellectual-property/register-copyright (Accessed: 21 May 2024).