Direct quote without citation: The author includes in his paper a group of words that are copied directly from a different source and does not use quotation marks or citation information to indicate that those words are not his own. 

Improper paraphrase: A paraphrase is “a restatement of a text or passage in another form or other words” (The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language). In an improper, plagiarized paraphrase, the author employs the general idea from another source, perhaps using similar wording, and does not use quotation marks or other indication that those words or thoughts are not his own. 

Downloading paper from the Internet (free or pay):  Any paper that is downloaded from the Internet or copied from another source in its entirety is plagiarism.

Cutting and pasting:  The author cuts and pastes sentences, sections, or paragraphs from another source, cobbling together a paper with minimal contribution of his own thoughts.  This is an example of academic dishonesty even if the author cites the sources of these quotes.

Fake citations:  The author fabricates citation information for information included in his paper.

No citations:  A paper without citations implies that the author concocted the entirety of the paper without consulting a single outside source, and had previous, self-discovered knowledge of all of the information included in the paper.

Written partly by a parent (or tutor): A paper that is turned in under a student’s name is expected to contain work performed by the student only.  While guidance from parents and tutors is appreciated, they should not write any part of the paper for the student. Some teachers require that a student who has received help from ANY source (parents, friends, tutors, etc.) acknowledge this at the end of the paper with a simple, “I have received help on this paper from _________________.” If a student is unsure what his teacher’s policy is on receiving outside help, he should ask.