Here's a breakdown:
Why Paraphrase?
* Avoid plagiarism: Using someone else's words without proper attribution is plagiarism. Paraphrasing allows you to use information from other sources while demonstrating understanding and avoiding plagiarism.
* Clarify complex information: Rewording can make dense or technical language more accessible and understandable.
* Vary your writing style: Paraphrasing helps to avoid repetition and keeps your writing fresh and engaging.
How to Paraphrase:
* Understand the original text: Read the passage carefully and make sure you understand the main idea and supporting details.
* Change the sentence structure: Rearrange the words, clauses, and phrases to create a new sentence structure.
* Use synonyms: Replace words with similar meanings to vary the vocabulary.
* Keep the meaning the same: Ensure the rewritten passage conveys the same information as the original text.
Example:
Original Text: "The rapid growth of the internet has revolutionized the way people communicate and access information."
Paraphrased Text: "With the internet's explosive rise, communication and information retrieval have been dramatically transformed."
Key Points to Remember:
* Don't just swap a few words. Paraphrasing involves a deeper understanding of the text and re-expressing it in your own unique way.
* Give credit to the original source even when paraphrasing.
* Be mindful of the context and audience when choosing your words and style.
Paraphrasing is a crucial skill for effective communication and academic writing. It allows you to borrow information responsibly while showcasing your own understanding of the subject matter.