What is Plagiarism By S.E. Van Bramer , Widener University 1995. Because students often are confused about what is and is not plagiarism, I have prepared this handout to help you understand what is acceptable. There are some gray areas and if you have any questions, ask your instructor.
Plagiarism is very serious and it can be grounds for failure in a course.
So ask first. Another important point is that as you progress in your education the standards become higher. As a College student you are expected to have your own ideas. To read information and explain it in your words. If you complete an assignment by copying material, you are not showing that you understand something.