Few writers intentionally try to pass off the work of others as their own. However, deadlines and other pressures can lead writers to take notes poorly and to cite sources improperly. In addition, access to documents through the Web and full-text databases has made it all too easy to copy and paste work from other writers without acknowledging its source.

Failing to cite your sources can lead to serious problems. Your readers will not be able to determine which information, ideas, and arguments are your own and which are drawn from your sources. If they suspect you are failing to acknowledge your sources, they might doubt your credibility and even stop reading your document. More seriously, submitting academic work that does not properly identify sources might result in a failing grade or other disciplinary action.