Do i have the right to use other's codes?

Question

What im meaning is, suppose i dont how to use button in HTML and how to use its value in JS. Now imagine i saw some codes code playground. I see one's code is exactly adjacent to my problem. So what i do is, i open that person's code, examine it, remove/add codes and see what it does, in other words, make changes to that code. After my doubt is cleared, i simply leave it to its original state, neither publish in my name, nor do anything illegal. Will this temporarily using code be regarded as plagiarism

Answer 1

Plagiarism is something different: more like when you publish someone else's code without the consent or the reference of the original author, and pretend that it was created by you. This is not nice and in the real world it could be punished by the law for copyright violation etc. On SoloLearn if this is found out, the moderators usually take some action like remove or hide the copied code.

However, copying others within sane limits, is a natural part of the learning process, and encouraged on this platform. If you can make use of an existing code, possibly even create something better from it, feel free to publish and mention the original author, I am sure they will be happy to give inspiration to other learners.

Answer 2

If you pick up a jar of cookies in a store, examine its contents, put it back to where it was and leave, is that considered stealing?

Answer 3

"[...] After my doubt is cleared, i simply leave it to its original state, neither publish in my name, nor do anything illegal. Will this temporarily using code be regarded as plagiarism"

Even if you made a PRIVATE copy (i.e. don't share it with others), it wouldn't constitute plagiarism. Specifically, copying for educational purposes (again, not for sharing) is generally protected under the Fair Use doctrine.

I hope this helps!

-- Janning⭐

[Standard Disclaimer: I'm not an attorney and I'm not your attorney. If you have a real legal issue, seek out an attorney that is familiar with and qualified to practice in your jurisdiction.]

Answer 4

You have the right to examine someone's code, for a better understanding and that is not plagiarism.