essay example about plagiarism

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A publication of the harvard college writing program.

Harvard Guide to Using Sources 

• The Honor Code
• What Constitutes Plagiarism?

In academic writing, it is considered plagiarism to draw any idea or any language from someone else without adequately crediting that source in your paper. It doesn't matter whether the source is a published author, another student, a website without clear authorship, a website that sells academic papers, or any other person: Taking credit for anyone else's work is stealing, and it is unacceptable in all academic situations, whether you do it intentionally or by accident.

The ease with which you can find information of all kinds online means that you need to be extra vigilant about keeping track of where you are getting information and ideas and about giving proper credit to the authors of the sources you use. If you cut and paste from an electronic document into your notes and forget to clearly label the document in your notes, or if you draw information from a series of websites without taking careful notes, you may end up taking credit for ideas that aren't yours, whether you mean to or not.

It's important to remember that every website is a document with an author, and therefore every website must be cited properly in your paper. For example, while it may seem obvious to you that an idea drawn from Professor Steven Pinker's book The Language Instinct should only appear in your paper if you include a clear citation, it might be less clear that information you glean about language acquisition from the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy website warrants a similar citation. Even though the authorship of this encyclopedia entry is less obvious than it might be if it were a print article (you need to scroll down the page to see the author's name, and if you don't do so you might mistakenly think an author isn't listed), you are still responsible for citing this material correctly. Similarly, if you consult a website that has no clear authorship, you are still responsible for citing the website as a source for your paper. The kind of source you use, or the absence of an author linked to that source, does not change the fact that you always need to cite your sources (see Evaluating Web Sources ).

Verbatim Plagiarism

If you copy language word for word from another source and use that language in your paper, you are plagiarizing verbatim . Even if you write down your own ideas in your own words and place them around text that you've drawn directly from a source, you must give credit to the author of the source material, either by placing the source material in quotation marks and providing a clear citation, or by paraphrasing the source material and providing a clear citation.

The passage below comes from Ellora Derenoncourt’s article, “Can You Move to Opportunity? Evidence from the Great Migration.”

Here is the article citation in APA style:

Derenoncourt, E. (2022). Can you move to opportunity? Evidence from the Great Migration. The American Economic Review , 112(2), 369–408. https://doi.org/10.1257/aer.20200002

Source material

Why did urban Black populations in the North increase so dramatically between 1940 and 1970? After a period of reduced mobility during the Great Depression, Black out-migration from the South resumed at an accelerated pace after 1940. Wartime jobs in the defense industry and in naval shipyards led to substantial Black migration to California and other Pacific states for the first time since the Migration began. Migration continued apace to midwestern cities in the 1950s and1960s, as the booming automobile industry attracted millions more Black southerners to the North, particularly to cities like Detroit or Cleveland. Of the six million Black migrants who left the South during the Great Migration, four million of them migrated between 1940 and 1970 alone.

Plagiarized version

While this student has written her own sentence introducing the topic, she has copied the italicized sentences directly from the source material. She has left out two sentences from Derenoncourt’s paragraph, but has reproduced the rest verbatim:

But things changed mid-century. After a period of reduced mobility during the Great Depression, Black out-migration from the South resumed at an accelerated pace after 1940. Wartime jobs in the defense industry and in naval shipyards led to substantial Black migration to California and other Pacific states for the first time since the Migration began. Migration continued apace to midwestern cities in the 1950s and1960s, as the booming automobile industry attracted millions more Black southerners to the North, particularly to cities like Detroit or Cleveland.

Acceptable version #1: Paraphrase with citation

In this version the student has paraphrased Derenoncourt’s passage, making it clear that these ideas come from a source by introducing the section with a clear signal phrase ("as Derenoncourt explains…") and citing the publication date, as APA style requires.

But things changed mid-century. In fact, as Derenoncourt (2022) explains, the wartime increase in jobs in both defense and naval shipyards marked the first time during the Great Migration that Black southerners went to California and other west coast states. After the war, the increase in jobs in the car industry led to Black southerners choosing cities in the midwest, including Detroit and Cleveland.

Acceptable version #2 : Direct quotation with citation or direct quotation and paraphrase with citation

If you quote directly from an author and cite the quoted material, you are giving credit to the author. But you should keep in mind that quoting long passages of text is only the best option if the particular language used by the author is important to your paper. Social scientists and STEM scholars rarely quote in their writing, paraphrasing their sources instead. If you are writing in the humanities, you should make sure that you only quote directly when you think it is important for your readers to see the original language.

In the example below, the student quotes part of the passage and paraphrases the rest.

But things changed mid-century. In fact, as Derenoncourt (2022) explains, “after a period of reduced mobility during the Great Depression, Black out-migration from the South resumed at an accelerated pace after 1940” (p. 379). Derenoncourt notes that after the war, the increase in jobs in the car industry led to Black southerners choosing cities in the midwest, including Detroit and Cleveland.

Mosaic Plagiarism

If you copy bits and pieces from a source (or several sources), changing a few words here and there without either adequately paraphrasing or quoting directly, the result is mosaic plagiarism . Even if you don't intend to copy the source, you may end up with this type of plagiarism as a result of careless note-taking and confusion over where your source's ideas end and your own ideas begin. You may think that you've paraphrased sufficiently or quoted relevant passages, but if you haven't taken careful notes along the way, or if you've cut and pasted from your sources, you can lose track of the boundaries between your own ideas and those of your sources. It's not enough to have good intentions and to cite some of the material you use. You are responsible for making clear distinctions between your ideas and the ideas of the scholars who have informed your work. If you keep track of the ideas that come from your sources and have a clear understanding of how your own ideas differ from those ideas, and you follow the correct citation style, you will avoid mosaic plagiarism.

Indeed, of the more than 3500 hours of instruction during medical school, an average of less than 60 hours are devoted to all of bioethics, health law and health economics combined . Most of the instruction is during the preclinical courses, leaving very little instructional time when students are experiencing bioethical or legal challenges during their hands-on, clinical training. More than 60 percent of the instructors in bioethics, health law, and health economics have not published since 1990 on the topic they are teaching.

--Persad, G.C., Elder, L., Sedig,L., Flores, L., & Emanuel, E. (2008). The current state of medical school education in bioethics, health law, and health economics. Journal of Law, Medicine, and Ethics 36 , 89-94.

Students can absorb the educational messages in medical dramas when they view them for entertainment. In fact, even though they were not created specifically for education, these programs can be seen as an entertainment-education tool [43, 44]. In entertainment-education shows, viewers are exposed to educational content in entertainment contexts, using visual language that is easy to understand and triggers emotional engagement [45]. The enhanced emotional engagement and cognitive development [5] and moral imagination make students more sensitive to training [22].

--Cambra-Badii, I., Moyano, E., Ortega, I., Josep-E Baños, & Sentí, M. (2021). TV medical dramas: Health sciences students’ viewing habits and potential for teaching issues related to bioethics and professionalism. BMC Medical Education, 21 , 1-11. doi: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12909-021-02947-7

Paragraph #1.

All of the ideas in this paragraph after the first sentence are drawn directly from Persad. But because the student has placed the citation mid-paragraph, the final two sentences wrongly appear to be the student’s own idea:

In order to advocate for the use of medical television shows in the medical education system, it is also important to look at the current bioethical curriculum. In the more than 3500 hours of training that students undergo in medical school, only about 60 hours are focused on bioethics, health law, and health economics (Persad et al, 2008). It is also problematic that students receive this training before they actually have spent time treating patients in the clinical setting. Most of these hours are taught by instructors without current publications in the field.

Paragraph #2.

All of the italicized ideas in this paragraph are either paraphrased or taken verbatim from Cambra-Badii, et al., but the student does not cite the source at all. As a result, readers will assume that the student has come up with these ideas himself:

Students can absorb the educational messages in medical dramas when they view them for entertainment. It doesn’t matter if the shows were designed for medical students; they can still be a tool for education. In these hybrid entertainment-education shows, viewers are exposed to educational content that triggers an emotional reaction. By allowing for this emotional, cognitive, and moral engagement, the shows make students more sensitive to training . There may be further applications to this type of education: the role of entertainment as a way of encouraging students to consider ethical situations could be extended to other professions, including law or even education.

The student has come up with the final idea in the paragraph (that this type of ethical training could apply to other professions), but because nothing in the paragraph is cited, it reads as if it is part of a whole paragraph of his own ideas, rather than the point that he is building to after using the ideas from the article without crediting the authors.

Acceptable version

In the first paragraph, the student uses signal phrases in nearly every sentence to reference the authors (“According to Persad et al.,” “As the researchers argue,” “They also note”), which makes it clear throughout the paragraph that all of the paragraph’s information has been drawn from Persad et al. The student also uses a clear APA in-text citation to point the reader to the original article. In the second paragraph, the student paraphrases and cites the source’s ideas and creates a clear boundary behind those ideas and his own, which appear in the final paragraph.

In order to advocate for the use of medical television shows in the medical education system, it is also important to look at the current bioethical curriculum. According to Persad et al. (2008), only about one percent of teaching time throughout the four years of medical school is spent on ethics. As the researchers argue, this presents a problem because the students are being taught about ethical issues before they have a chance to experience those issues themselves. They also note that more than sixty percent of instructors teaching bioethics to medical students have no recent publications in the subject.

The research suggests that medical dramas may be a promising source for discussions of medical ethics. Cambra-Badii et al. (2021) explain that even when watched for entertainment, medical shows can help viewers engage emotionally with the characters and may prime them to be more receptive to training in medical ethics. There may be further applications to this type of education: the role of entertainment as a way of encouraging students to consider ethical situations could be extended to other professions, including law or even education.

Inadequate Paraphrase

When you paraphrase, your task is to distill the source's ideas in your own words. It's not enough to change a few words here and there and leave the rest; instead, you must completely restate the ideas in the passage in your own words. If your own language is too close to the original, then you are plagiarizing, even if you do provide a citation.

In order to make sure that you are using your own words, it's a good idea to put away the source material while you write your paraphrase of it. This way, you will force yourself to distill the point you think the author is making and articulate it in a new way. Once you have done this, you should look back at the original and make sure that you have represented the source’s ideas accurately and that you have not used the same words or sentence structure. If you do want to use some of the author's words for emphasis or clarity, you must put those words in quotation marks and provide a citation.

The passage below comes from Michael Sandel’s article, “The Case Against Perfection.” Here’s the article citation in MLA style:

Sandel, Michael. “The Case Against Perfection.” The Atlantic , April 2004, https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2004/04/the-case-against-pe... .

Though there is much to be said for this argument, I do not think the main problem with enhancement and genetic engineering is that they undermine effort and erode human agency. The deeper danger is that they represent a kind of hyperagency—a Promethean aspiration to remake nature, including human nature, to serve our purposes and satisfy our desires. The problem is not the drift to mechanism but the drive to mastery. And what the drive to mastery misses and may even destroy is an appreciation of the gifted character of human powers and achievements.

The version below is an inadequate paraphrase because the student has only cut or replaced a few words: “I do not think the main problem” became “the main problem is not”; “deeper danger” became “bigger problem”; “aspiration” became “desire”; “the gifted character of human powers and achievements” became “the gifts that make our achievements possible.”

The main problem with enhancement and genetic engineering is not that they undermine effort and erode human agency. The bigger problem is that they represent a kind of hyperagency—a Promethean desire to remake nature, including human nature, to serve our purposes and satisfy our desires. The problem is not the drift to mechanism but the drive to mastery. And what the drive to mastery misses and may even destroy is an appreciation of the gifts that make our achievements possible (Sandel).

Acceptable version #1: Adequate paraphrase with citation

In this version, the student communicates Sandel’s ideas but does not borrow language from Sandel. Because the student uses Sandel’s name in the first sentence and has consulted an online version of the article without page numbers, there is no need for a parenthetical citation.

Michael Sandel disagrees with the argument that genetic engineering is a problem because it replaces the need for humans to work hard and make their own choices. Instead, he argues that we should be more concerned that the decision to use genetic enhancement is motivated by a desire to take control of nature and bend it to our will instead of appreciating its gifts.

Acceptable version #2: Direct quotation with citation

In this version, the student uses Sandel’s words in quotation marks and provides a clear MLA in-text citation. In cases where you are going to talk about the exact language that an author uses, it is acceptable to quote longer passages of text. If you are not going to discuss the exact language, you should paraphrase rather than quoting extensively.

The author argues that “the main problem with enhancement and genetic engineering is not that they undermine effort and erode human agency,” but, rather that “they represent a kind of hyperagency—a Promethean desire to remake nature, including human nature, to serve our purposes and satisfy our desires. The problem is not the drift to mechanism but the drive to mastery. And what the drive to mastery misses and may even destroy is an appreciation of the gifts that make our achievements possible” (Sandel).

Uncited Paraphrase

When you use your own language to describe someone else's idea, that idea still belongs to the author of the original material. Therefore, it's not enough to paraphrase the source material responsibly; you also need to cite the source, even if you have changed the wording significantly. As with quoting, when you paraphrase you are offering your reader a glimpse of someone else's work on your chosen topic, and you should also provide enough information for your reader to trace that work back to its original form. The rule of thumb here is simple: Whenever you use ideas that you did not think up yourself, you need to give credit to the source in which you found them, whether you quote directly from that material or provide a responsible paraphrase.

The passage below comes from C. Thi Nguyen’s article, “Echo Chambers and Epistemic Bubbles.”

Here’s the citation for the article, in APA style:

Nguyen, C. (2020). Echo chambers and epistemic bubbles. Episteme, 17 (2), 141-161. doi:10.1017/epi.2018.32

Epistemic bubbles can easily form accidentally. But the most plausible explanation for the particular features of echo chambers is something more malicious. Echo chambers are excellent tools to maintain, reinforce, and expand power through epistemic control. Thus, it is likely (though not necessary) that echo chambers are set up intentionally, or at least maintained, for this functionality (Nguyen, 2020).

The student who wrote the paraphrase below has drawn these ideas directly from Nguyen’s article but has not credited the author. Although she paraphrased adequately, she is still responsible for citing Nguyen as the source of this information.

Echo chambers and epistemic bubbles have different origins. While epistemic bubbles can be created organically, it’s more likely that echo chambers will be formed by those who wish to keep or even grow their control over the information that people hear and understand.

In this version, the student eliminates any possible ambiguity about the source of the ideas in the paragraph. By using a signal phrase to name the author whenever the source of the ideas could be unclear, the student clearly attributes these ideas to Nguyen.

According to Nguyen (2020), echo chambers and epistemic bubbles have different origins. Nguyen argues that while epistemic bubbles can be created organically, it’s more likely that echo chambers will be formed by those who wish to keep or even grow their control over the information that people hear and understand.

Uncited Quotation

When you put source material in quotation marks in your essay, you are telling your reader that you have drawn that material from somewhere else. But it's not enough to indicate that the material in quotation marks is not the product of your own thinking or experimentation: You must also credit the author of that material and provide a trail for your reader to follow back to the original document. This way, your reader will know who did the original work and will also be able to go back and consult that work if they are interested in learning more about the topic. Citations should always go directly after quotations.

The passage below comes from Deirdre Mask’s nonfiction book, The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal About Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power.

Here is the MLA citation for the book:

Mask, Deirdre. The Address Book: What Street Addresses Reveal About Identity, Race, Wealth, and Power. St. Martin’s Griffin, 2021.

In New York, even addresses are for sale. The city allows a developer, for the bargain price of $11,000 (as of 2019), to apply to change the street address to something more attractive.

It’s not enough for the student to indicate that these words come from a source; the source must be cited:

After all, “in New York, even addresses are for sale. The city allows a developer, for the bargain price of $11,000 (as of 2019), to apply to change the street address to something more attractive.”

Here, the student has cited the source of the quotation using an MLA in-text citation:

After all, “in New York, even addresses are for sale. The city allows a developer, for the bargain price of $11,000 (as of 2019), to apply to change the street address to something more attractive” (Mask 229).

Using Material from Another Student's Work

In some courses you will be allowed or encouraged to form study groups, to work together in class generating ideas, or to collaborate on your thinking in other ways. Even in those cases, it's imperative that you understand whether all of your writing must be done independently, or whether group authorship is permitted. Most often, even in courses that allow some collaborative discussion, the writing or calculations that you do must be your own. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't collect feedback on your writing from a classmate or a writing tutor; rather, it means that the argument you make (and the ideas you rely on to make it) should either be your own or you should give credit to the source of those ideas.

So what does this mean for the ideas that emerge from class discussion or peer review exercises? Unlike the ideas that your professor offers in lecture (you should always cite these), ideas that come up in the course of class discussion or peer review are collaborative, and often not just the product of one individual's thinking. If, however, you see a clear moment in discussion when a particular student comes up with an idea, you should cite that student. In any case, when your work is informed by class discussions, it's courteous and collegial to include a discursive footnote in your paper that lets your readers know about that discussion. So, for example, if you were writing a paper about the narrator in Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried and you came up with your idea during a discussion in class, you might place a footnote in your paper that states the following: "I am indebted to the members of my Expos 20 section for sparking my thoughts about the role of the narrator as Greek Chorus in Tim O'Brien's The Things They Carried ."

It is important to note that collaboration policies can vary by course, even within the same department, and you are responsible for familiarizing yourself with each course's expectation about collaboration. Collaboration policies are often stated in the syllabus, but if you are not sure whether it is appropriate to collaborate on work for any course, you should always consult your instructor.

• The Exception: Common Knowledge
• Other Scenarios to Avoid
• Why Does it Matter if You Plagiarize?
• How to Avoid Plagiarism
• Harvard University Plagiarism Policy

PDFs for This Section

• Avoiding Plagiarism
• Online Library and Citation Tools

Essay on Plagiarism

In the academic and literary world, originality and authenticity are paramount. Plagiarism, the act of using someone else’s work or ideas without proper acknowledgment, is a serious ethical violation. This essay delves into the definition, implications, and ways to avoid plagiarism, particularly for students participating in essay writing competitions.

Plagiarism is not just copying text word-for-word; it encompasses a range of actions, including:

• Paraphrasing someone’s ideas without crediting the source.
• Submitting someone else’s work as your own.
• Using media or research data without proper citation.
• Recycling your own previous work (self-plagiarism).

Types of Plagiarism :

• Direct Plagiarism: Copying text word-for-word without quotation marks or citation.
• Self-Plagiarism: Reusing one’s own previously published work without acknowledgment.
• Mosaic Plagiarism: Integrating ideas or phrases from a source into one’s own work without proper citation.
• Accidental Plagiarism: Unintentionally failing to cite sources or misquoting them.

The Ethical Implications of Plagiarism

Plagiarism is not merely a matter of academic misconduct; it raises significant ethical concerns:

• Intellectual Theft : It disrespects the original creator’s effort and intellectual property.
• Academic Dishonesty : It undermines the trust and credibility in the educational system.
• Legal Consequences : In some cases, it can lead to legal actions and severe penalties.

The Importance of Originality in Essay Competitions

In essay competitions, originality is the cornerstone of excellence. Original essays:

• Demonstrate a student’s unique perspective and understanding.
• Showcase creativity and critical thinking skills.
• Are valued for their contribution to the topic’s discourse.

How to Avoid Plagiarism

Avoiding plagiarism involves conscious effort and knowledge. Here are some practical tips:

• Understand the Source Material : Comprehend the original text to paraphrase effectively.
• Use Citations Correctly : Familiarize yourself with citation styles (APA, MLA, Chicago) and use them consistently.
• Quote Properly : When using direct quotes, ensure they are enclosed in quotation marks with appropriate attribution.
• Paraphrase Effectively : Rewrite the source information in your own words and style, not just replacing a few words.
• Cross-Check Your Work : Utilize plagiarism checkers to ensure the uniqueness of your content.
• Maintain a Bibliography : Keep a record of all sources referenced in your essay.

Deepening the Understanding of Plagiarism

• Cultural Perspective : It’s essential to acknowledge that perceptions of plagiarism can vary culturally. Understanding these nuances is crucial for international students and competitions.
• Impact on Learning : Plagiarism hinders personal academic growth. When students engage in this practice, they lose the opportunity to develop critical thinking and writing skills, which are invaluable in their educational journey.
• Role of Educators : Teachers and mentors play a pivotal role in shaping students’ understanding of plagiarism. They should provide clear guidelines and tools for proper citation and academic honesty.
• Technological Aid : In today’s digital age, various software and online tools are available to help detect and prevent plagiarism. These tools, however, should be used as aids, not replacements for a student’s own vigilance in maintaining academic integrity.

Broadening the Perspective

• Beyond Academia : The concept of plagiarism is not confined to academic settings. In creative fields like art, music, and literature, plagiarism can lead to serious reputational damage and legal issues.
• Collaborative Work : When working on group projects, it’s vital to delineate individual contributions clearly to avoid any unintentional group plagiarism.
• Long-Term Consequences : Academic dishonesty, including plagiarism, can have long-lasting effects on a student’s educational and professional career. It’s important to understand that the consequences extend beyond just a grade.

The Role of Technology

In the modern academic landscape, technology plays a pivotal role in both facilitating and combating plagiarism. Understanding its dual influence is crucial for students, educators, and professionals alike.

Facilitating Access and Temptation

• Easy Access to Information : The internet offers a vast repository of information, making it easy to find and potentially copy academic material.
• Essay Mills and Ghostwriting Services : Online platforms provide ready-made essays or offer ghostwriting services, tempting students to submit work that is not their own.
• File Sharing : Students can easily share and access papers and assignments, increasing the temptation to plagiarize.

Tools for Detection and Prevention

• Plagiarism Detection Software : Tools like Turnitin and Grammarly effectively identify plagiarized content by comparing submissions against extensive databases of published work, academic papers, and internet sources.
• Educational Platforms : Online educational platforms incorporate plagiarism checking features, helping both students and educators identify and address plagiarism promptly.
• Citation and Bibliography Tools : Applications like Zotero and EndNote assist in managing citations and bibliographies, making it easier for students to correctly attribute sources.
• Digital Literacy Education : Technology also aids in educating students about the ethics of information use, teaching them how to distinguish between legitimate research and plagiarism.

Balancing Act

While technology simplifies access to information, potentially increasing the risk of plagiarism, it also provides robust tools for detection and education. It’s crucial that students and educators use technology ethically and responsibly, leveraging it not just as a means of detection, but also as a platform for teaching the importance of academic integrity and originality.

Plagiarism is a critical concern in the realm of academic and competitive writing. Understanding its definition, ethical implications, and ways to avoid it is essential for students. By fostering originality and ethical writing practices, students can excel in essay competitions and contribute valuable perspectives to academic discourse. Let’s champion the cause of intellectual integrity and creativity in our scholarly endeavors.

Essay Generator

Text prompt

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Generate an essay on the importance of extracurricular activities for student development

Write an essay discussing the role of technology in modern education.

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Study Skills

Good academic practice and avoiding plagiarism.

• Introduction
• Taking good notes
• Managing your time
• Paraphrasing
• Summarising
• Common knowledge
• Referencing styles
• Referencing tools
• Understanding plagiarism
• Final thoughts

Creative Commons

Plagiarism is a form of academic misconduct, using ideas or the work of another person and presenting it as your own work. It is dishonest, unprofessional and poor scholarship. It is a breach of the University's "Rules of Behaviour" and is a form of cheating. For information visit the University's Definition of Academic Misconduct . Examples of plagiarism might include cutting and pasting work, using essay mills or closely paraphrasing another’s ideas, writing or design.

Collusion is a form of plagiarism where two or more people work together to produce a piece of work but where all or part of the work is submitted as their own work. Group work where students are encouraged to work together to produce a single piece of work for assessment is not collusion.

Plagiarism and Academic Misconduct provide additional guidance on plagiarism and how to avoid it.

Test your understanding of plagiarism

Reading the information above, do you think the following statements are TRUE or FALSE. Click on the statement to reveal the answer

Using a few words from an article mixed up with your own words is not plagiarism

FALSE. Mixing a few words of an article with your own is often throught of as paraphrasing, but this is not the way to paraphrase in your work. Look at the paraphrasing section for more information on how to paraphrase well.

If my friend writes half my essay and I write the other half this is not collusion

FALSE. If you are submitting the work as your own, you should be the only person writing it. If you are submitting group with more than one contributor, make sure all the contributions are acknolwedged

Information on the Internet is free and does not need referencing

FALSE. Information and content that is not your own work needs to be referenced regardless of where it is located. Referencing acknowledges another persons' work and is good academic practice. See our section on referencing for more information.

Statistics, images and figures must be referenced

TRUE. All information, including statistics, images, diagrams and tables where the work is not your own need to be referenced. Look at the referencing section for more information.

Plagiarism is the copying of published work, so if I copy my friend's unpublished work that is not plagiarism

FALSE. Information and content that is not your own work needs to be referenced regardless of whether it is published or not. This includes your own work as well. Referencing acknowledges the original work and is good academic practice. See our section on referencing for more information.

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• Knowledge Base
• Examples of Plagiarism & Tips for Avoiding It

Examples of Plagiarism & Tips for Avoiding It

Published on 15 July 2022 by Tegan George . Revised on 15 May 2023.

Plagiarism means using someone else’s words or ideas without properly crediting the original author.

Some common examples of plagiarism include:

• Paraphrasing a source too closely
• Including a direct quote without quotation marks
• Copying elements of different sources and pasting them into a new document
• Leaving out an in-text citation
• Submitting a full text that is not your own

Table of contents

Paraphrasing plagiarism, verbatim plagiarism, patchwork plagiarism: combining multiple sources, common knowledge: when do i need a citation, real-life examples of plagiarism, frequently asked questions about plagiarism.

Paraphrasing means putting someone else’s ideas into your own words. In order to do so correctly, you must entirely rewrite the passage you are referencing without changing the meaning of the original text.

Every time you paraphrase, it’s important to cite the original source and avoid wording that is too similar to the original. Otherwise, you could be at risk of committing paraphrasing plagiarism .

Remember that paraphrasing doesn’t just mean switching out a few words for synonyms while retaining the original sentence structure. The author’s idea must be reformulated in a way that fits smoothly into your text.

Prevent plagiarism, run a free check.

Quoting means copying a brief passage from another text, enclosing it in quotation marks .

If you fail to include quotation marks or a citation, you’re committing verbatim plagiarism : copying someone’s exact words without acknowledgement. Even if you change a few of the words, it’s still plagiarism.

To quote correctly, introduce the quotation in your own words, make sure it’s enclosed in quotation marks, and include a citation showing where it comes from.

Patchwork plagiarism , also called mosaic plagiarism, involves copying elements of different sources and combining them to create a new text. It can include both directly copying and paraphrasing content without citation.

It can be challenging to incorporate several sources into your work at once, so be sure to double-check that you are citing each one correctly.

If you quote or paraphrase multiple sources in one sentence, it’s often best to cite each one separately, so that it’s clear what material comes from which source.

‘Americans have always remembered the battle. What we often forget are the difficult decisions tribal leaders made afterward to ensure the safety of their people’ (Van Heuvelen, 2020).

‘Under skies darkened by smoke, gunfire and flying arrows, 210 men of the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry Unit led by Lt. Colonel George Custer confronted thousands of Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne warriors on June 25, 1876, near the Little Big Horn River in present-day Montana. The engagement was one in a series of battles and negotiations between Plains Indians and U.S. forces over control of Western territory, collectively known as the Sioux Wars’ (McDermott, 2021). Example: Patchwork plagiarism For many Americans, the headdress is a well-known symbol of indigenous America indistinguishable from the narrative of the ‘wild west and cowboys and Indians’.  One of the most famous examples of the cowboys versus Indians narrative is the Battle of Little Bighorn.

On June 25, 1876, 210 men of the U.S. Army’s 7th Cavalry Unit led by Lt. Colonel George Custer confronted thousands of Lakota Sioux and Northern Cheyenne warriors . Custer and his men were handily defeated, and Americans have always remembered the battle as ‘Custer’s Last Stand’. What is often forgotten is the difficult decisions tribal leaders made afterward to ensure the safety of their people . Example: Correctly citing multiple sources The headdress is a well-known symbol of indigenous America, forming part of ‘the narrative of the wild west and cowboys and Indians’ (Van Heuvelen, 2020). One of the most famous examples of this narrative is the Battle of Little Bighorn.

Common knowledge refers to information you can reasonably expect the average reader to accept without proof.

For this kind of information, you don’t need a citation. For example, you won’t be accused of plagiarism for failing to cite your sources when you mention Paris is the capital city of France.

In order to be considered common knowledge, your statement must be widely known, undisputed, and easily verified. It also generally cannot be attributed to a specific person or paper. When in doubt, add a citation.

Plagiarism is most commonly discussed in the context of academia, but it’s a relevant concern across all sorts of different industries, from pop music to politics.

• Plagiarism in academia
• Plagiarism in art
• Plagiarism in politics
• Plagiarism in music

Dissertation plagiarism committed by other famous politicians, such as former Senator John Walsh, former German Defense Secretary Karl Theodor zu Guttenberg, and former Hungarian President Pal Schmitt, led to their resignations and their degrees being revoked.

Source: CNN Reusing or copying existing materials has been a big part of many types of art. However, it is still possible to plagiarise art.In 1966, famous Pop Art artist Andy Warhol was sued by photographer Patricia Caulfield, who claimed unauthorised use of one of her photographs. Warhol had seen her photo of hibiscus flowers in the 1964 issue of Modern Photography  and used it for his silkscreen work Flowers .

While Warhol’s team argued that this was ‘fair use’, a judge determined that Warhol had, in fact, plagiarised the photo. This led to enduring reputation costs and a large financial settlement.

Source: Garden Collage Many political speeches revolve around similar themes, but while it is natural to draw inspiration from previous speeches, paraphrasing them too closely is considered plagiarism.In 2016, a speech Melania Trump gave at the Republican National Convention was found to have copied several paragraphs almost verbatim from a speech Michelle Obama gave at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. While her staff claimed that she had incorporated ‘fragments of others’ speeches that reflected her own thinking’, she was widely considered to have plagiarised.

Joe Biden was found to have committed similar plagiarism in a speech he gave during the 1988 presidential campaign, paraphrasing a speech by Welsh politician Neil Kinnock too closely.

Source: CNN While technically no one owns a chord progression or particular combination of sounds, plagiarism in the music industry is a common accusation.In 2018, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that the 2013 hit song ‘Blurred Lines’, by Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams, infringed on the copyright of the song ‘Got to Give it Up’, by the late Marvin Gaye. The Gaye family was awarded over $5 million in damages as well as 50% of the royalties moving forward.

This sets a precedent that new music must be different in both style and substance from previously copyrighted songs. Other hit artists, such as Sam Smith, George Harrison, and Olivia Rodrigo, have faced similar consequences.

Plagiarism means presenting someone else’s work as your own without giving proper credit to the original author. In academic writing, plagiarism involves using words, ideas, or information from a source without including a citation .

Plagiarism can have serious consequences , even when it’s done accidentally. To avoid plagiarism, it’s important to keep track of your sources and cite them correctly.

Some examples of plagiarism include:

• Copying and pasting a Wikipedia article into the body of an assignment
• Quoting a source without including a citation
• Not paraphrasing a source properly (e.g. maintaining wording too close to the original)
• Forgetting to cite the source of an idea

The most surefire way to   avoid plagiarism is to always cite your sources . When in doubt, cite!

Paraphrasing without crediting the original author is a form of plagiarism , because you’re presenting someone else’s ideas as if they were your own.

However, paraphrasing is not plagiarism if you correctly reference the source . This means including an in-text referencing and a full reference , formatted according to your required citation style (e.g., Harvard , Vancouver ).

As well as referencing your source, make sure that any paraphrased text is completely rewritten in your own words.

Common knowledge does not need to be cited. However, you should be extra careful when deciding what counts as common knowledge.

Common knowledge encompasses information that the average educated reader would accept as true without needing the extra validation of a source or citation.

Common knowledge should be widely known, undisputed, and easily verified. When in doubt, always cite your sources.

Yes, reusing your own work without citation is considered self-plagiarism . This can range from resubmitting an entire assignment to reusing passages or data from something you’ve handed in previously.

Self-plagiarism often has the same consequences as other types of plagiarism . If you want to reuse content you wrote in the past, make sure to check your university’s policy or consult your professor.

Cite this Scribbr article

If you want to cite this source, you can copy and paste the citation or click the ‘Cite this Scribbr article’ button to automatically add the citation to our free Reference Generator.

George, T. (2023, May 15). Examples of Plagiarism & Tips for Avoiding It. Scribbr. Retrieved 6 May 2024, from https://www.scribbr.co.uk/preventing-plagiarism/examples-plagiarism/

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Plagiarism, Essay Example

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In order to understand what plagiarism is, it is essential to get a broad definition. According to most people, plagiarism entails the act copying of someone’s original idea and presenting it as yours. However, according to most scholars, most people make this misconception and The Excalibur readers should be aware of this. In order to understand exactly what plagiarism entails, three sources will be used in this study. The first source that will be used is titled “ How to fight college cheating” by Lawrence M. Hinman. In his article, the author states that students from high school think that copying and pasting articles from web sources is not cheating. However, in truth, copying and pasting articles from and website or books is cheating if one does not attribute the work to the original owner. However, it is essential to understand that one can have the same idea but present it in a different manner. In his article, the author states that cases of plagiarism and cheating have been rampant among high school students. He states that there have been a growing number of cases where students have been caught having plagiarized someone’s work (Hinman).

The second source that will be used in this essay is “ The rules of attribution” by Deborah R. Gerhardt. In her article, the author talks of the importance of paying attribute once someone has used one’s written words. This means that by attributing the borrowed work from an original author one will be able to eliminate plagiarism (Gerhardt). The third and final source that will be used to help understand the consequence of plagiarism is “ How I caused that story” by Doris Kearns. In her article, the author documents how she was caught up by using someone’s work and not properly accrediting it as supposed (Kearns). The most notable thing learnt from all the articles is that plagiarism is not copying someone’s work or idea but using someone’s work or ideas without attribution.

Works Cited

Gerhardt Deborah. The rules of attribution. The Chronicle Review. (May 26 2006), vol. 52, Iss. 38, Page B20. Retrieved on 13 October 2012 from http://www.physics.ohio-state.edu/~wilkins/physics/ethics/attribution.html

Hinman, Lawrence. How to fight college cheating. The Washington Post. September 3, 2004. Retrieved on 13 October 2012 from http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp- dyn/articles/A57836-2004Sep2.html

Kearns Doris . How I caused that story. The Time. Jan. 27, 2002. Retrieved on 13 October 2012 from http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,197614,00.html

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90 Plagiarism Topics, Ideas & Examples

🏆 best research titles about plagiarism, 👍 good plagiarism essay titles, ❓ research questions about plagiarism.

• Tips on Avoiding Plagiarism At the end of the quotation, credit to the source should be given either in the form of in-text citation or in a footnote.
• Plagiarism Effects and Strategies The failure to recognize the contributions of other scholars in one’s work is generally referred to as plagiarism. Also, the paper recommends strategies that may be adopted by educators and learners to address the problem […]
• What Is Plagiarism and Why Is It Wrong? Now using the same paper but adding information to it and revising the content of the paper would not be considered self plagiarism because the paper will change in content in focus.
• Plagiarism and How to Avoid It Also, the source of the information is not reflected in the text. One should be relaxed and bending the body slightly forward to show interest in the person and the conversation.
• Plagiarism in the Real World: Jayson Blair and the New York Times One of the notorious cases of plagiarism is the Jason Blair scandal that happened in 2003. Another example of real-world plagiarism is Melania Trump’s speech at the Republican National Convention in 2016.
• Academic Integrity: Plagiarism and Academic Dishonesty Some of the most significant issues he highlights include the following: The quality of information on the web varies significantly While internet search may help to narrow down on a topic, it may erode the […]
• Plagiarism in Professional Writing It is also called institutionalized plagiarism, and it is reasonable because the knowledge of such documents is common. The rules of it can and need to be respected to observe copyright.
• Paraphrasing and Plagiarism A majority of the students fails to realize that they need to give credit to the original author even when they have paraphrased their work.
• Plagiarism: What It Is and How to Avoid It The focus is then shifted to the future of plagiarism in contemporary society and the effect of information technologies. The expropriation of the work of another person and presentation of it like your own is […]
• Plagiarism Is Morally Reprehensible Thus, to discuss the ethical component of plagiarism, it is necessary to pay attention to the definition of the concept and its meaning in relation to the idea of academic integrity.
• Avoiding Plagiarism With Paraphrasing There are several strategies for avoiding plagiarism, among them competent citation of sources with the mention of the author’s name and words in quotation marks and paraphrasing the source’s content are.
• Plagiarism and Originality in Personal Understanding However, the price is to be paid; original people differ from the rest and often experience loneliness and feel that they are misunderstood.
• Plagiarism in Nurse Academic Papers Copyright infringement and plagiarism detection in the work of a future medical officer is a breach of trust and can significantly affect a nurse’s future work.
• Lawyer Plagiarism as Ethical Violation Plagiarism can be termed referred to as the act of directly copying an individual’s work and presenting it as one’s own.
• Plagiarism and Its Effects on Nursing Students Plagiarism is a widespread issue that affects the papers of nearly all students. This damage can further prevent students from publishing their academic papers in the future due to inadvertent plagiarism that might stem from […]
• Copyright and Plagiarism: Expectations in Context It is clear that he could have interpreted Bob Dylan’s quote to his understanding and given credit for using his materials in the book Imagine: How Creativity Works.
• Plagiarism in Nursing Education When dealing with the following problem in the context of nursing, there are various types of plagiarism the students are not even aware of, meaning they sometimes plagiarize the thoughts and ideas of other people […]
• The Problem of Plagiarism in the World The question that we should answer appropriately is that is it not the right time we re-think about the quality and the originality of our written works or are we less intelligent and lazier than […]
• Plagiarism: Recognizing and Avoiding This is because the student has only left out some words from the original passage and has used the same words that were in the source.
• Law and Policy Against Plagiarism Currently, the renowned form of corruption that degrades the efforts of man in the search and quest to discover novel things and innovatively new ideas is plagiarism.
• Maintaining Academic Integrity by Avoiding Plagiarism Plagiarism is the use of someone else’s work and failure to acknowledge the original author correctly. Paraphrasing and synthesizing support future nursing practice because they enable students to understand arguments in each source while matching […]
• Plagiarism: The Act of Copying Someone Else’s Words or Ideas The Wharton County Junior College plagiarism policy states that their students are expected to submit their original work, and plagiarism is prohibited.
• How to Avoid Plagiarism Description The bottom line is that all materials used in a piece of writing that does not belong to your original production or creativity should be given credit accordingly.
• Analyzing Scholarly Writing: Plagiarism and Parahrasing This paper provides the general analysis of the provided articles and the detailed evaluation of the academic quality of the selected material.
• Causes and Effects of Plagiarism Writing is a daily activity that every person has to indulge in, and this is especially significant in the case of students who pursue academic degrees.
• Copyright Law and the University Policy on Plagiarism Comparison It also covers the act of using part of a literary plot, motion picture, poem, musical presentation, or other forms of art without the consent of the owner of the work.
• Plagiarism: Negative Aspects and Consequences There should be a checking done of the paraphrasing in one’s work to ensure that the same words and phrases from the text are not used in one’s work.
• Importance of Plagiarism Strategies in Writing Regarding a number of writing requirements and the possibility to be blamed for plagiarism, it is hard for many students to start writing their papers without any fears and doubts about the quality and originality […]
• Recognizing and Avoiding Plagiarism Using the phrase “conflict of interest” has amounted to a plagiarism report as this is a big percentage of the sentence The rest of the errors were in the last sentence where borrowing the words […]
• Embedding Plagiarism Education in the Assessment Process The authors of this study argue that the use of electronic detection tools can help students better understand the correct methods of citing sources and avoiding plagiarism.
• Plagiarism Among International Students: Omnibus Report In essence, therefore, the credibility of the whole report is built upon the concise details provided in the cover letter, and which include: identifying what plagiarism constitutes in the context of the United States; providing […]
• Plagiarism and Facebook Use in Students Despite the view that the current generation of students is somewhat neglecting the seriousness of plagiarism, it is still viewed that originality must be emphasized and not to allow digital technology to violate principles of […]
• Plagiarism From a Cross-Cultural Perspective Individualism presupposes respect for the authors whose ideas a person is going to borrow while direct communication as a cultural value implies open access to standards and codes of behavior, which is likely to minimize […]
• Plagiarism Elimination in Academic Writing This type of plagiarism is the easiest to detect, as it involves directly copying large swaths of text from other works without alterations or citations. It is more difficult to detect than direct plagiarism and […]
• The Price of the Plagiarism Plagiarism is considered a global problem of contemporary science and education as well as in the spheres of literature and music. The violation of copyright legislation is considered a crime and can lead to a […]
• Plagiarism Detection, Penalties and Consequences The most common form of plagiarism is copying information and using it as part of one’s assignment or essay, without acknowledging the original source of information Sometimes, students are dumbfounded by the amount of work […]
• Academic Integrity and Plagiarism It is both Mike’s and Todd’s fault Mike’s is that he does not know the content and asks Todd to show the answers, Todd’s is that he agrees.
• Referencing and Avoiding Plagiarism It is a requirement that students and other individuals using electronic materials in their research use the various citation methods in acknowledging the owners of the legal rights of any electronic materials.
• Plagiarism in Graduate Students’ Applied Research The problem addressed in this study is the methods of dealing with the issue of plagiarism in applied research papers amid graduate students, which threatens to weaken the quality of academic research.
• Plagiarism Knowledge: Assessment and Improvement In this case, I failed in one of the questions I had answered correctly in the previous test. Nonetheless, it was also important that I managed to answer all the questions I had failed in […]
• Cheating and Plagiarism in Academic Settings Their main task is to show that the main objective of learning is to gain knowledge and skills, and that education cannot be reduced only to good grades and recognition of other people. This is […]
• Graphic Design and Plagiarism in Saudi Arabia The sites act as sources of inspiration for graphic designers; however, the challenge is the transitioning of the source of inspiration to the aid for plagiarism.
• The Problem of Plagiarism The problem of plagiarism is of great concern to many teachers who want to ensure that learners can acquire knowledge and skills.
• Helping Chinese Students Avoid Plagiarism As such, a lot of explanation is needed to convince Chinese students to accept and appreciate the requirement for referencing the sources used in order to avoid plagiarism.
• Plagiarism Definition and Explaining The aim of the report is to provide a working definition of plagiarism and explain the problem of plagiarism as faced by international students when studying in the U.S.
• Plagiarism Problem in Higher Education There is an immense devaluation of the learning encounter of the learners and the quality of the graduates. The consciousness of plagiarism is essential in deciphering if an imitative behavior is deliberate.
• Plagiarism Problem in Writing This is actually because the author of the original material is not able to enjoy the advantages of the good work that he or she has produced.
• Academic Honesty and Plagiarism While rather efficient and working in most cases, the approach in question, though, is not to be considered the silver bullet of detecting plagiarism in an academic setting either, for the individual psychological qualities of […]
• Plagiarism: For and Against Therefore, the argument against plagiarism is based on the loss of the perpetrator in terms of the shame of the act and the loss of the original author.
• Plagiarism and Paraphrasing Sometimes the cheat notes might not be relevant to the test, and in such cases such students underperform. In conclusion, honest students are stress-free and have a smooth academic life and perform to the best […]
• Academic Integrity: Cheating and Plagiarism Instructors need to understand their students to find out what drives them to cheat in exams. Administrators and other stakeholders in educational institutions, need to discourage their students from cheating, to ensure they maintain high […]
• Peculiarities of Plagiarism Many students copy the sentences or the ideas of the researchers or other students without marking it as the citation. Simple paraphrasing and the use of quotation marks will help to solve the problem.
• Plagiarism Effects in Academic Institutions and Workplace In such cases, students work is found to have been plagiarized, years after the attainment of the degree/ certification, the institutions can revoke it.
• Plagiarism as a Form of Theft What is of importance in the realm of ideas is not the ownership of the rights to a certain piece of work but the originality[6].
• Why Chinese Culture Leads to High Plagiarism Rate in Chinese Universities The issue of plagiarism in China and other Asian countries has worried scholars from the west and the rest of the world for centuries. The research paper will be expected to expose the magnitude of […]
• Paper Analysis: Instructional Document about Plagiarism and the Internet By using these colors in the instructional document, the audience is reminded of the gravity of the matter and the danger that can arise from engaging in plagiarism.
• Cheating Plagiarism Issues Cheating in exams and assignments among college and university students is in the rise due to the access of the internet and poor culture where integrity is not a key aspect.
• Plagiarism Definition and Effects In addition to that, there is a vast amount of software that helps you to correctly cite your sources and check for plagiarism.
• Spotlight on Plagiarism Phenomenon A plagiarism policy in the University of Sydney states that “Where an Examiner detects or is made aware of alleged Plagiarism or Academic Dishonesty by a student; the Examiner must report the alleged Plagiarism or […]
• How Much of a Concern Is Online Plagiarism in Online Education?
• Who Is a Famous Person Who Plagiarized?
• What Are the Consequences of Plagiarism in High School?
• What Is the Best Software for Plagiarism?
• What Constitutes Plagiarism or Cheating?
• How Plagiarism Will Affect the Quality of the Research Paper?
• What Are the Consequences or Punishments if a Student Is Caught Plagiarizing?
• Can You Be Criminally Charged for Plagiarism?
• How Will You Avoid Plagiarism Commerce?
• How Does Plagiarism Affect a Person’s Reputation?
• What Is the Relationship Between Intellectual Property Rights and Plagiarism?
• Is It Plagiarism if You Copy and Paste but Cite the Source?
• What Is the Difference Between Plagiarism and Citation?
• Why Are Laws on Plagiarism and Copyrights Important?
• Why Is It Necessary to Check the Plagiarism in Any Research Report?
• Why Is Plagiarism a Violation?
• How Can Plagiarism Damage Ethical Standards?
• How Can College Essay Plagiarism Checker Help You in Your Studying?
• What Are the Consequences and Penalties for Plagiarism?
• What Are the Differences Between Plagiarism Copyright Infringement and Piracy?
• Who Was the First Person to Plagiarize?
• How Does the University of Phoenix Work to Combat Plagiarism?
• How Could Plagiarism Harm Your Academics or Career?
• Can PDF Be Checked for Plagiarism?
• How Does Moral Law Relate to Plagiarism?
• How Can Teachers Prevent Plagiarism?
• How Important Are Copyright Fair Use and Plagiarism in Intellectual Property?
• Does Plagiarism Violate Copyright?
• How Do Technology and the Internet Make Plagiarism Easier?
• What Plagiarism Software Do Universities Use?
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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Not all Heroes Wear Capes

This essay about the concept of heroism challenges the traditional superhero archetype by celebrating the everyday heroes who do not wear capes. It highlights the significant, yet often unrecognized, acts of bravery and kindness performed by ordinary people in various roles, such as teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, and ordinary citizens. The narrative argues that true heroism is not about grand gestures but is found in the quiet, steadfast dedication to helping others, showing compassion, and making a difference in simple ways. By recognizing the unsung heroes in our daily lives, the essay encourages a broader, more inclusive definition of heroism that values moral courage and selflessness over spectacle and fame.

How it works

When we think of heroes, images of caped crusaders soaring across city skylines often come to mind. Yet, the true essence of heroism is far more grounded and vastly more diverse than the vibrant pages of comic books suggest. “Not all heroes wear capes” is a phrase that acknowledges the everyday bravery and selfless acts performed by ordinary people—those who don’t don flashy costumes but whose actions are anything but ordinary.

Consider the teacher in a cramped classroom who spends extra hours helping students not just understand algebra or literature, but also learn the crucial life lessons of resilience and hope.

These educators might not make headlines, but their steadfast dedication shapes the future, one child at a time. Or, think of the healthcare workers who toiled tirelessly on the front lines of global health crises, clad not in capes but in scrubs and protective gear, their faces marked by the prolonged wear of masks. Their heroism lies not in grand gestures but in the quiet consistency of care they provide amidst fear and uncertainty.

Then there are the less sung heroes like social workers and mental health counselors. These individuals dive into the depths of human despair and difficulty, offering their hands to those in need of support to climb back into the light. They don’t work for accolades or recognition but are driven by a profound commitment to healing and helping.

Moreover, heroism can be found in the everyday acts of kindness by ordinary citizens: the neighbor who checks in on the elderly during a heatwave, the teenager who stands up against bullying despite personal risk, or the passerby who intervenes to help a stranger in distress. These acts might seem minor compared to the fantastical feats depicted in superhero movies, but they hold profound impacts on the lives they touch.

The narrative of heroism is evolving, broadening its scope beyond the traditional archetypes. It celebrates not only the courage to face danger but also the courage to be compassionate, to extend oneself beyond the comfort zone, and to act with integrity in the face of everyday challenges. This shift in perception encourages us all to recognize the potential for heroism within ourselves and others, regardless of our outward appearances or social status.

In conclusion, while the flamboyant heroes of fiction dazzle and entertain, it’s the unassuming heroes among us who forge real change and inspire true bravery. These heroes challenge us to rethink what it means to be truly heroic, proving time and again that the spirit of heroism is as diverse as humanity itself. As we celebrate these everyday champions, we’re reminded that heroism doesn’t need a cape, just a cause and the courage to act for it.

This narrative on heroism not only broadens our understanding of what it means to be heroic but also calls each of us to recognize and honor the heroes who walk among us. It’s a compelling reminder that the quietest forms of courage can sometimes be the most powerful.

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