You are proofreading your assignment and realise most of your in-text citations are from a single website. You’re nearly finished. More citations will mean more time on this assignment.

Rather than going back to your research, you make up a few quotes and cite them using in-text citations, then you reference a few sources that you haven’t actually used. It makes your assignment look better and you're sure your teacher won’t check your references.

1 answer

It's important to maintain academic integrity in your assignments. Citing sources that you haven't actually used, as well as fabricating quotes, is considered plagiarism and can have serious consequences for your academic career.

Instead of resorting to dishonesty, here are some alternative approaches you could consider:

Review Your Research: Go back to your research materials and see if there are other sources you haven't cited. You might find additional information that enhances your assignment and gives you more diverse citations.
Use Multiple Perspectives: Consider browsing through scholarly databases, library resources, or other legitimate websites to gather additional viewpoints or data that support your argument.
Broaden Your Sources: Explore different types of sources (books, journal articles, reputable websites) that can provide more information on your topic.
Consult with Your Teacher: If you're struggling with citations, it might be worthwhile to discuss it with your teacher or a classmate for guidance and support.
Focus on Quality: Remember that the quality of your work is more important than the quantity of citations. Make sure the sources you do include are relevant and strengthen your arguments.

Ultimately, maintaining honesty in your work is crucial not only for your academic reputation but for your personal growth as a learner.