# Similarity reports: components and revision checklist

Decision workbook and teaching example · 2026-10-06

The completed case is fictional. Its values and decisions are not actual findings; complete your project using relevant permissions, methods and requirements.

- Project: ____________________
- Researcher and role: ____________________
- Date and version: ____________________
- Data seen before the decision: ____________________
- Aim and scope: ____________________

## Completed example

| Stage/decision | Example | Check or action |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Report | Version, date and settings | Comparable with the earlier report? |
| Classification | Quote, reference, wording or idea | Has each source been examined? |
| Interpretation | A and B with similar percentages | Is judgment tied to the text? |
| Action | Cite, quote, rewrite or seek advice | Is the reason recorded? |
| Approval | Author review and local policy | Is the tool report distinguished from a decision? |

## Complete your own record

| Topic | Actual decision and reason | Evidence link and status |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Report | __________ | __________ |
| Classification | __________ | __________ |
| Interpretation | __________ | __________ |
| Action | __________ | __________ |
| Approval | __________ | __________ |

## Completion checks

- [ ] Keep a match/reason/action matrix with the original report.

## Changes and limitations

| Date | Change | Data known at decision time | Reason | Consequence for claim | Reviewer |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| __________ | __________ | __________ | __________ | __________ | __________ |

## Sources and further reading

- [iThenticate — Understanding the Similarity Report](https://guides.ithenticate.com/hc/en-us/articles/27842305774605-Understanding-the-Similarity-Report)
- [ICMJE — Roles of authors and contributors](https://www.icmje.org/recommendations/browse/roles-and-responsibilities/defining-the-role-of-authors-and-contributors.html)

Related guide: https://didgar-research-site1.vercel.app/en/guides/similarity-report/