Which of the following is NOT true regarding the use of a paraphrased idea in academic writing?

The statement that is not true regarding the use of a paraphrased idea in academic writing is the idea that you can change the wording of another author's idea, making it your own without requiring citation. This is incorrect because even when you paraphrase, you are still using someone else's ideas, which must be credited to the original source to avoid plagiarism. Paraphrasing involves rewording or rephrasing another author's thoughts, but the underlying concepts remain attributed to that author. Therefore, proper academic practice mandates that any paraphrased idea be cited to maintain academic integrity and to give credit to the original creator of the idea.

In contrast, the other options correctly acknowledge the importance of citation in paraphrasing, the role of paraphrased ideas in supporting one’s argument, and the necessity of building upon original sources while properly crediting them.