How to Avoid Academic Dishonesty

Listed below are several strategies for helping students avoid committing, aiding and abetting, or being the victim of academic dishonesty.

  • Generally speaking, you can avoid academic dishonesty by making sure that you understand and follow the guidelines your instructor has laid out for you, either in introductory lectures or in the syllabus. If you are unclear about anything in these guidelines, ask your instructor for clarification. Remember that each of your instructors may have different expectations and policies.
  • Whether you are working in-class or out-of-class on projects, papers, or speeches, make sure you understand and follow the rules about collaborating with other students. Find out if you are allowed to work with your classmates. If you know you aren't supposed to collaborate with other students, be careful about giving them help.

Three people reading.
  • “Do not lend your homework, provide copies of exams or quizzes, or provide assistance when it is specifically prohibited. Some students have tried to help out a friend, only to find themselves accused of facilitating academic dishonesty.”6