ACHIEVEMENT 3

Greetings, everyone, I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits.

Today, I’m excited to share what I’ve learned from Achievement 3, which centers around the essential topic of Content Etiquette and Plagiarism. As digital creators, writers, and contributors, it's important that we understand how to responsibly use and credit content in the online world.

What is Plagiarism ?

Plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s work—such as text, images, videos, graphics, music, or ideas—without proper acknowledgment or permission. It involves presenting someone else's content as your own, which is not only unethical but can also lead to serious consequences, including legal action or content removal.

Content creators invest significant time, effort, and creativity into their work. Respecting that work by crediting original authors and using content appropriately is a key part of content etiquette.

'Real-Life Scenario'

Imagine you’re a content creator who spends days shooting, editing, and perfecting a video. After uploading it, someone downloads your video and uses it in their own project without asking you or giving you credit. That’s plagiarism—taking credit for someone else's effort.

Whether done intentionally or accidentally, plagiarism is discouraged across all platforms and communities, and original creators have the right to report and act against it.

8 . Common Types of Plagiarism (Explained)

Understanding plagiarism also means being able to recognize its many forms. Here are eight of the most common types:

1 . Complete Plagiarism

This is the most blatant form, where a person copies an entire piece of content—word for word—and presents it as their own without giving any credit to the original author.

2 . Source-Based Plagiarism

This occurs when a writer cites a source incorrectly—such as referencing the wrong author or making up sources entirely. It can also involve manipulating citations to give a false impression of research.

3 . Self-Plagiarism

Using your own previously published work (e.g., articles, blogs, or assignments) in a new context without disclosure or permission can be considered self-plagiarism. It’s especially important in academic and professional settings.

4 . Paraphrased Plagiarism

This involves rewording someone else’s content slightly while keeping the original meaning intact—without giving credit. Even if the wording is changed, the idea still belongs to the original author and should be cited properly.

5 . Mosaic Plagiarism (Patchwriting)

This happens when someone blends copied phrases, quotes, or data from multiple sources into their own work without proper citation. It creates a “mosaic” of mixed content but is still considered plagiarism.

6 . Accidental Plagiarism

Sometimes, plagiarism is unintentional. You might forget to cite a source, reuse a sentence you read elsewhere, or assume an idea is common knowledge. Regardless of intent, it's still important to double-check your content.

7. Direct Plagiarism

Also known as “copy-paste plagiarism,” this is when content is copied exactly from a source without changes or credit. This form is easy to detect and is a clear violation of content guidelines.

8 . Inaccurate Authorship (Misattribution)

This occurs when credit is given to the wrong individual—either by including someone who didn’t contribute or omitting someone who did. Proper authorship is crucial in collaborative projects.

How to Avoid Plagiarism ?

Avoiding plagiarism is simple if you follow good content practices:

1. Always cite your sources — include direct links or full references.

2. Use plagiarism detection tools to check your content before publishing.

3. Don’t copy and paste — try to understand and rewrite in your own words.

4. Ask permission when using someone’s images, videos, or creative work.

5. Give full credit to the original creator, not just a general source like "Wikipedia" — link to the exact
   page.

Most importantly, focus on creating original content. Your ideas matter, and your unique voice is what makes your content valuable.

What Are Citations?

Citations are references that give credit to the source of specific ideas, facts, or words used in your content. They promote transparency and acknowledge the original author’s work.

Example:

“Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
Source: World Health Organization – Constitution of WHO

Final Note:

I have read and understood the Steemit Etiquette Guidelines and will uphold them in my content. I’m committed to creating with honesty, respecting the work of others, and continuously learning how to be a responsible digital creator.

Let’s keep growing and supporting each other with integrity and creativity.