How to do a citation for using open source code ?

I use a few lines of code, say a method or two from an open source project. The methods are quite simple (5-6 lines) and not something that could be considered intellectual property.
Since the methods are quite simple, can I change the contents and say that the code is mine ? It would almost be like changing what a few print statements say, but not that simple.

If I should not, then how do I acknowledge the author when I use a bit of his code in my code ?

Thanks in advance.

Read the license. If it is specified that the source code can be modified/redistributed/used in non commercial intentions. You should be able to change the code you want.

Lexington Smith wrote:The methods are quite simple (5-6 lines) and not something that could be considered intellectual property.

As I recall, QuickSort is about 10. Don't judge creativity by size.

Winston

Winston Gutkowski wrote: . . . Don't judge creativity by size.

Winston

If creativity is related to size, that method is probably twice as creative as quick‑sort

Actually everything is intellectual property under copyright law.

Winston Gutkowski wrote:

Lexington Smith wrote:The methods are quite simple (5-6 lines) and not something that could be considered intellectual property.

As I recall, QuickSort is about 10. Don't judge creativity by size.

Winston

Yeah, i meant the code does not really do anything like quick sort. Think of it like taking a password and logging you into an account with 5-6 lines of code.
No too great I suppose.

I presume you have already followed Daniel Georgescu’s suggestion.