Final answer:
It is false that using in-text citations alone makes you immune to plagiarism; correct citation usage and maintaining your original voice are crucial.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is false that using in-text citations in your paper completely prevents plagiarism. Plagiarism is not only about lacking citations, but also about the presentation of someone else's work or ideas as your own. Proper citations involve correctly using quotation marks for direct quotations, providing accurate references for paraphrases and summaries, and ensuring that your own voice and ideas are predominant in your work.
Some examples of plagiarism include not using quotation marks for direct quotes, even with a citation, and modifying an author's words without correct attribution. A healthy balance in an essay would include no more than 10% to 20% material from sources, ensuring the bulk of the work reflects your own understanding, ideas, and critical thinking.
Remember that citations serve not only to avoid plagiarism but also to strengthen the credibility of your work. They consist of both internal (in-text) and external citations (works cited or references page entries) and must be formatted according to specific guidelines like MLA or APA. Finally, it's vital to maintain an accurate research log and plan your work schedule to allow thorough engagement with your sources.