Here's why:
* Shows Understanding: Paraphrasing forces you to process the original information and express it in your own words. This demonstrates that you have truly grasped the author's meaning and can explain it in a way that makes sense to your audience.
* Avoids Plagiarism: Directly copying someone else's words without attribution is plagiarism, a serious academic offense. Paraphrasing allows you to use the information while giving credit to the original author.
* Improves Clarity: Often, paraphrasing can help you simplify complex language or make the information more accessible to your audience.
* Integrates Information: Paraphrasing allows you to smoothly incorporate source material into your own writing, creating a more cohesive and engaging piece.
In essence, paraphrasing is a crucial skill for any writer, especially when working with research or academic material. It allows you to build upon existing knowledge while maintaining intellectual honesty and clarity.