Self Paced Reference It Course

Plagiarism is copying another author's words or ideas with acknowledging them.

Plagiarising the work of others is academically dishonest, and is considered cheating.  Plagiarism may result in disciplinary action being taken against you.

Please be sure that you understand and comply with the assessment requirements set out by your lecturer.  If you are in any doubt, ask your lecturer for assistance.

Referencing is a system of rules and principles that is used to acknowledge the contributions of other authors that have directly influenced your work.  At South Metropolitan TAFE, the referencing system we use is called the APA Style.

Referencing is important, because it allows us to use the work of others to add weight and significance to our arguments, proposals and conclusions without "stealing" their words and ideas.

Referencing offers many benefits, including:  

• enabling the reader to validate the sources or material that you have used.
• allowing you to demonstrate wider reading and research.
• illustrating your points and giving strength to your arguments.
• illustrating the points of others.
• helping you to avoid inadvertently plagiarising the work of others. 

What is Referencing and Why is it important?

Avoiding Plagiarism

Plagiarism: How to Avoid It (Video)

Still have questions?

• Try the FAQ page of our guide.
• Find definitions in our Glossary.
• Work through our Referencing and Plagiarism Guide for more information.
• Ask for help in your campus library.