CITI RCR Practice Test 2026 – Complete Exam Preparation

The type of misconduct described in the scenario, where someone removes data points to generate a misleading conclusion, is classified as falsification. Falsification occurs when a researcher manipulates research materials, equipment, or processes, or alters or distorts data or results in such a way that the research is not accurately represented. By selectively removing data points to mislead others about the findings, the individual is essentially altering the integrity of the data to present a false narrative, thus engaging in falsification.

This behavior diverges from other misconduct categories as well. For instance, fabrication involves making up data or results rather than manipulating or misrepresenting existing data, while plagiarism pertains to taking someone else's work or ideas without proper acknowledgment. Improper authorship relates to issues regarding contributions to research papers and recognition of those contributions.