Key points at a glance
- Inspect significant matches one by one.
- Separate correct quotation and standard text from source problems.
- Fix misleading or missing attribution before submission.
Understand what the tool detects
Similarity software compares text with material in its available databases. It cannot reliably decide whether a match is an acceptable quotation, a standard phrase or an unattributed borrowing. A low score can still hide a serious problem if a central idea lacks a source.
Classify the highlighted passages
Review verbatim text, paraphrases, standard methods language, references and required declarations separately. A properly marked quotation can trigger a match, while an unattributed translated idea may not. Context matters more than the colour or overall score.
Correct attribution rather than game the score
For each concern, inspect the original source and check quotation marks, page locators and citations. A paraphrase requires your own expression plus a reference; replacing a few words does not make an idea yours. Revise to represent the source accurately, not merely to avoid detection.
Respect the institution’s process
Students may not have access to the same checker as examiners, and vendors use different source collections. Avoid uploading an unpublished or confidential thesis to an untrusted website. Your institution’s rules and human assessment determine the outcome.
Final submission context
Formal details can feel like a separate writing task, but they matter just as much for a printed submission. Anything missing, misplaced or inconsistently formatted in the document will also appear in the bound copy.
Use this guide together with your cover page, table of contents, page numbers, source notes and appendices. Prepare the final PDF for printing and binding only after the complete file has been checked.
Practical check before PDF export
- Do headings, chapter structure and page numbers match?
- Are sources, figures and tables included completely?
- Are required elements such as declarations, appendices or the cover page included where required?
- Did you open and check the final PDF after exporting it?
Checklist
- Read major matches in context.
- Checked quotations and paraphrases.
- Verified references against originals.
- Considered confidentiality before upload.
Common mistakes
- Treating a percentage as automatic clearance.
- Swapping synonyms to evade matches.
- Using unreviewed third-party checkers for sensitive work.
Prepare the finished thesis for submission
Once the content and university requirements are checked, review your PDF and the available printing and binding options.
Review printing optionsRelated content
Explore related guidance on thesis structure, sources, formatting and final submission.
Frequently asked questions
What similarity percentage is acceptable?
There is no universal threshold; the nature and attribution of matches matter.
Can correct quotations be flagged?
Yes. Check that the quotation and citation meet the required style.
Does software find every plagiarism issue?
No. Coverage and detection are limited, so careful scholarly review remains essential.