Interpreting Similarity Check Reports

As part of our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of academic integrity, ICRP utilizes advanced plagiarism detection software through our affiliation with Crossref. This software, iThenticate, is instrumental in identifying instances of text overlap between a submitted manuscript and the existing body of literature. On occasion, our Editorial Office may forward a similarity report to you, the editor, to evaluate the extent and appropriateness of text reuse.

The report includes a percentage that quantifies the overall extent of text reuse. This figure should be approached with discernment:

  • High Similarity Scores: A high percentage does not inherently imply misconduct but signals a need for closer examination to determine if the overlap constitutes plagiarism or unnecessary redundancy.

Considerations for Evaluating the Report:

  1. Nature of Overlap: Assess whether the similarities are sporadic or concentrated in blocks, and if complete sentences or paragraphs have been duplicated from other works.
  2. Location of Overlap: The significance of overlap varies by section; for example, common methodologies or introductory background may be less concerning than similarities found in the discussion or conclusions.
  3. Data Duplication: Almost universally unacceptable without proper citation.
  4. Citation: Determine if the overlapping text has been appropriately cited and discussed within the manuscript.
  5. Authorship: If the previously published work shares an author with the submission, the issue may pertain to copyright or redundant publication rather than plagiarism. Some degree of overlap, such as with the authors’ own preprints or thesis work (provided these are acknowledged), can be permissible.
  6. Software Accuracy: Evaluate whether the similarity might have been overestimated due to the inclusion of quotations or reference lists in the calculation.

Next Steps Following the Report:

  • Should the similarity level warrant concern, request that authors address these sections by rewriting and properly citing any overlooked references before proceeding to peer review.
  • In cases where the manuscript appears excessively plagiarized, a rejection may be necessary.

Further Assistance and Resources:

For inquiries about interpreting iThenticate reports or addressing plagiarism concerns, please contact our publication ethics team.

For additional information on similarity checks and handling reports, visit:

Our editorial process is designed to uphold the integrity of the research we publish, ensuring that all content is original, properly cited, and contributes valuable knowledge to the academic community.