Here's a more detailed breakdown:
* Using your own words: You don't simply copy and paste the original text. You rephrase it using different vocabulary and sentence structures.
* Expressing someone else's ideas: You're not creating new ideas; you're conveying the same meaning as the original source, but in your own voice.
Important points to remember:
* Accurate representation: Your paraphrase should be faithful to the original meaning. Don't change the core message.
* Proper attribution: Always credit the original author or source. This can be done by using quotation marks for direct quotes or by citing the source in a footnote, endnote, or bibliography.
Paraphrasing is a crucial skill in academic writing, research, and communication. It allows you to demonstrate understanding, synthesize information, and avoid plagiarism.