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Paraphrasing

A paraphrase is an indirect quotation written in your own words. It involves rewriting the original completely - including the sentence structure - not just changing a few words. As with quoting, you need to provide a full citation when you paraphrase, but not usually a page number.

 

The way in which you paraphrase depends on the use you are making of the information in your own argument. The following examples paraphrase different aspects of the original text:

  • Nobody owns or controls the Internet, although there are various bodies which ensure it continues to function well (Cottrell, 2003).
  • Cottrell (2003) points out that certain novels are available only through the Internet.