Global Academic Spectrum enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against plagiarism and intellectual property theft in all scholarly submissions.
Quality / Similarity Check: All submitted manuscripts are screened through plagiarism-detection or similarity-checking software before being assigned to peer reviewers.
1. Forms of Plagiarism
Plagiarism includes verbatim copying of text, improper paraphrasing without attribution, self-plagiarism (text recycling), idea theft, and unauthorized copying of figures, tables, or empirical data.
2. Quality / Similarity Check
Manuscripts may be checked using Turnitin, iThenticate, DrillBit, or any other plagiarism-detection software approved by the Editorial Board or institution. The acceptable overall Similarity Index is 10% or less, excluding references, bibliography, and properly cited quotations where applicable.
A manuscript that crosses the acceptable similarity limit may be returned for correction, sent for detailed editorial review, or rejected depending on the nature and extent of overlap. The Editorial Board's decision on similarity and plagiarism matters will be final.
3. Similarity Thresholds & Action
- Similarity ≤ 10% (excluding references): Standard acceptable threshold for academic publication.
- Similarity 11% – 20%: Manuscript returned to author for comprehensive revision, re-paraphrasing, and citation correction before any review.
- Similarity > 20%: Immediate desk rejection without appeal. Proven deliberate plagiarism results in author blacklisting across future submissions.