Answers

When you are learning to paraphrase, there are some methods you can use to ensure you are paraphrasing effectively. 

 

Method 1: Change grammar, word order, and use synonyms

 

Some students may find it easier to paraphrase in a more technical way - by focusing on the actual components of the sentence, to ensure the paraphrased version is not the same as the original. 

 

(1) Changing grammar

When changing the grammar of the original sentence, consider whether you can change any parts of speech (verbs, adjectives, or nouns) or word forms (for example, tenses or active/passive voice). 

 

Example:

Original sentence: The number of burglaries increased. 

Sentence with changed grammar: There was an increase in burglaries. 

 

(2) Changing word order

If the original sentence is written in the order: Subject - verb - object, consider changing this order. 

 

Example:

Original sentence: The survey detected several anomalies. 

Sentence with changed word order: Several anomalies were detected by the survey. 

 

(3) Using synonyms

Synonyms are words that have similar meanings to each other. When paraphrasing, you can change the words from the original by using synonyms. 

 

Example:

Original sentence: The business had meagre profits. 

Sentence using synonyms: The organisation narrowly avoided losses. 

 

Important note: To paraphrase successfully, you would need to use a combination of all three techniques described above. Simply using synonyms to change the words of the original is not considered adequate paraphrasing. 

 

Method 2: Read, understand, write

 

Some students may prefer a paraphrasing method that focuses on the 'bigger picture' rather than the smaller sentence-level details. This method of paraphrasing involves three steps: (1) Reading the literature and making notes; (2) thinking about what you have read to confirm your understanding; (3) writing what you have understood without looking at the original source. 

 

(1) Reading and note-taking

All paraphrasing begins with reading. Read the original source and make some short notes on any important points that you would like to use in your assignment. 

 

It's important that you do not re-write entire quotes or extracts from the source. Focus on writing short notes that summarise what you have understood. 

 

(2) Understand

Take time to read over your short notes and make sure you understand what they are about. Check for accuracy against the original source. 

 

(3) Write

Before you start writing, put the original source away! You do not want to have the original source open in front of you as you write, because this will make it very difficult for you to phrase your ideas differently. 

 

Using your notes, write what you have understood from the source. 

 

Write the ideas in clear language. You do not have to try to sound overly academic. The most important thing is for you to express the ideas clearly. 

 

Remember: Whenever you paraphrase, you must include the citation to show where you found the original idea. You must also list the source in the reference list. Failing to cite and reference amounts to plagiarism. 

 

If you need further support with paraphrasing, make an appointment with the Academic Skills Team or contact us at AcademicSkills@arden.ac.uk 

 

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