We understand that finding the relevant information for your business documents can be challenging, and that it isn’t always straightforward incorporating industry information into the document without dancing the line of plagiarism. Whilst it can be difficult, it is paramount that you understand how to avoid plagiarism in business documents in order to steer clear of the serious consequences. Whilst an advanced plagiarism tool can help ensure that your business document doesn’t contain a significant amount of plagiarised work, take our tips for avoiding plagiarism in business documents into consideration to beat the trap.
Paraphrasing
Finally, you have found information that is ideal for your business document. Instead of copying it word-for-word, you should read the information thoroughly (more than twice if possible) before re-writing it in your own words. Ultimately, when it comes to avoiding plagiarism in business documents, it is paramount that you avoid copying more than two to three words in a row from the information you have found, as this may flag up as plagiarism. However, we understand that it is not always possible to completely avoid using more than two words together – this is where you should use quotation marks around the copied text, which we’ll explain in more detail below.
Quoting Information
When you are using a source of information for your business document and find yourself needing the exact wording it provides, you must ensure you use the quote in the same way it appears and cite it correctly. After all, no one wants to be misquoted, and thus you must ensure that it is copied accurately.
More importantly, it is vital to consider that quotes of 40 words plus is frowned upon, as you should be able to paraphrase the majority of material, should you need to include it in your business document. Whilst understanding how to paraphrase correctly can be time consuming, rest assured it is worthwhile and ultimately reduces the risk of plagiarism.
Remember To Cite Your Own Material!
If some of the resources you are using for your business document are your own work, you must cite your own material as though it were someone else’s. It might sound unnecessary, because after all you are the person who wrote it in the first place, but it is vital that you treat the copy the same. Remember: self-plagiarism is just as unacceptable as plagiarism.
Reference Your Work
One of the best ways to avoid plagiarism in business documents is by including a sizeable reference page at the end of your business document. With this in mind, the reference page must meet business document formatting guidelines, and must contain specific information such as the author(s) name, date of publication, title and source, should you be referencing information from a published book. By following the directions carefully, you will rest assured knowing you are getting the reference right, and will not face accusations of plagiarism.
When it comes to avoiding plagiarism in business documents, it is paramount that you understand what plagiarism is, the consequences of plagiarism and how you can avoid it. Not only does citing your own material and paraphrasing correctly save you a lot of unnecessary trouble, but it will ultimately help you avoid plagiarism in business documents.
