Updated learning guide: This article has been refreshed for the current Paper Per Hour study platform.
Verbatim plagiarism happens when exact words are copied without quotation marks and a clear citation.
What counts as verbatim plagiarism
- Copying a sentence or paragraph without quotation marks
- Changing only a few words while keeping the original structure
- Using copied notes in a submission without tracing the source
How to use a direct quotation
Quote only the words you need, preserve them accurately, introduce the source, and provide the citation required by your course style.
A safer note-taking method
- Keep copied quotations in a clearly marked quotation field
- Record page numbers and source details immediately
- Write your explanation from memory before checking the source
- Compare the draft against the source before submitting
Check understanding, not just similarity
A low similarity score does not automatically make work original. Your reasoning, attribution, and permitted use of sources matter.
Turn this into an active study session
Upload your course materials to Paper Per Hour to build a focused study session with grounded explanations, summaries, flashcards, and practice questions. Always follow your institution’s academic-integrity rules.