Plagiarism is a serious issue in academic writing, and it can have severe consequences for students and professionals alike. It involves using someone else’s work, ideas, or words without proper acknowledgment, and it undermines the integrity of academic research and writing. To avoid plagiarism, it's crucial to properly cite sources, use quotation marks for direct quotes, and paraphrase information accurately. Adopting best practices for referencing and being mindful of your sources will ensure that your work remains original and credible, maintaining your academic reputation and fostering a culture of honesty in writing.