The Act says that, in certain situations, the use of a work without prior authorization from the owner of the rights does not constitute a copyright infringement because it is considered "fair dealing."

The Act specifies however that use will only be fair if it is made for purposes of private study or research or for criticism or review, if the source and the name of the author or copyright owner are indicated. In this regard, it must be understood that the notion of fair dealing comes into play only in cases where the use of the work would have otherwise been considered a copyright infringement. Such use would be considered an infringement only if a substantial portion of the work is used.