XU.TUTOR
Defining the Question
Indentifying Resources
Improving a Search
Evaluating Websites
Preventing Plagiarism
XU.TUTOR Home

xu.tutor: Preventing Plagiarism

4A. What is the correct way to paraphrase? Techniques

Paraphrasing is a technique used to avoid plagiarism. Your paraphrase can be longer or shorter than the original. Concentrate on the meaning and not on the words to get the paraphrase in your own "voice." Use some or all of the paraphrasing techniques listed below:

  • Change word form or part of speech (example).
  • Use synonyms of "relationship words" (example). Look for relationship words such as contrast, cause, effect, and substitute a word or phrase that conveys a similar meaning. This will often change the structure of your sentence.
  • Use synonyms of phrases and words (example).
  • Change passive voice to active and move phrases and modifiers.
  • Use reversals or negatives that do not change the meaning (example).
  • Do not change concept words, special terms, or proper names (example).

<<back next>>

Copyright 2008 : Xavier University : McDonald Library : 3800 Victory Parkway : Cincinnati, OH 45207-5211 : 513 745-3881