See how we handle copyright at Stuvia. Our practical checklist helps you verify that your study material comply with all necessary rules. This way you can upload your documents with complete confidence.
Sharing knowledge: yes. Stealing knowledge: no. On Stuvia, you can only upload documents that you have the rights to and that don't contain plagiarism.
When you share a document on Stuvia, you keep all your rights. You decide what happens with it: edit, remove, sell, or offer it for free – it's all up to you. Stuvia only provides the platform and isn't responsible for the content and exchange of documents.
Want to scan or copy someone else's book, summary, or other work and offer it on Stuvia? That's only allowed if you've received permission from the rights holder first.
When writing a good summary without breaking copyright rules, there are a few guidelines:
There are different ways to cite sources, but the most commonly used method is APA.
Want to make sure you meet all requirements? Check out our handy checklist at the bottom of this page.
Plagiarism is copying others' ideas without referring to the source. As soon as you take something word-for-word without citing the source, you're committing plagiarism.
Here's how to avoid plagiarism:
Want to be 100% sure? Always cite or paraphrase correctly and note the source according to the proper rules.
Downloading images from the internet is easy, but that doesn't mean you can freely use them. Due to copyright, you generally need to ask the creator for permission.
There's one exception: when the creator has specified what you can and cannot do with the image. For example, rules like "not for commercial use" or "only with source citation." Just make sure you follow these conditions!
Citing means directly quoting what someone has said or written. This is allowed, provided you:
If you meet these requirements, you don't need permission from the author.
Note: you can only cite from published works. A quote should clarify what you've written yourself and make up only a small part of the whole. Citing an entire chapter isn't allowed.
You can also cite images, but only if necessary to clarify your text AND you cite the source. If the image is purely decorative, you still need permission.
Paraphrasing means restating what someone else has said or written in your own words. You do this when:
With paraphrasing, you maintain your own writing style and your text becomes more readable. Don't forget to mention the source, including at least the author's name and publication year. Unlike with direct quotes, when paraphrasing from a book, you don't need to include a page number.
Generally, you're allowed to place a hyperlink to copyrighted works. A hyperlink is simply a clickable reference.
There are a few conditions:
An 'embedded link' (like showing a YouTube video on your own page) is also allowed. But be careful: you may not first download the video and then upload it to your own site without reference. That falls under "copying and distribution."
Want to make sure your study material follows the rules? Use this handy checklist:
Note: ultimately, you're responsible for the content of the study material you sell on Stuvia.