Final answer:
A good rule to avoid plagiarism is to cite the source when in doubt, practice ethical attribution, and balance the use of sources with original content and analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
What is a good rule to follow to avoid plagiarism? The best answer is c) When in doubt, cite your source. To practice ethical attribution, one must always cite original sources of information, whether quoting directly, summarizing, or paraphrasing. It's vital to use quotation marks around language that is taken directly from a source and include internal citations in a research log and in your essay. Planning and keeping accurate notes is crucial for clear attribution, and all internal citations should have a corresponding entry on the Works Cited page. Use source material to support your argument but maintain a balance with your original ideas and analysis. You do not need to cite common knowledge, but when presenting specific facts or data, proper citation is necessary to avoid plagiarism.
Remember, if you incorporate direct quotes, they should be in your own words and you should credit the source. Moreover, keeping a research log with detailed notes of all sources, including the author, title, and publication details, simplifies the process of citation. It also is a good practice to begin a Works Cited page early to keep track of all sources, which aids in ethical citation habits. It's recommended to maintain a healthy ratio of source material to original work, typically no more than 10% to 20% from sources to ensure the focus remains on your ideas.