Research Writing: Capture the Facts

Lesson Plan - Get It!

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Why Note Cards Matter

Note cards might feel old-school, but they’re a research writer’s best friend. They keep your information organized, help you stay on topic, and make writing your paper easier when it’s time to assemble the pieces.

Think of them like puzzle pieces—each one contains a key detail, and together, they reveal the big picture.

Before you start taking notes, grab these supplies.

• 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 note cards
• pencil or pen
• your thesis statement and outline
• all your source materials
• a note card box, envelope, or baggie
• paperclips or rubber bands to group by subtopic

How to Take Notes Like a Pro

Each card should capture one idea. That idea can be a direct quote, a paraphrase, or a summary—but it should always include a source number and a topic heading.

Here’s how it works.

1. Start with the Source Number

Each source you found earlier should have a corresponding source card. Use this number on each note card from that source so you know where the information came from.

2. Add a Topic Heading

This comes from your preliminary outline. Label the note card with the topic it supports so you can organize your cards into sections later.

3. Write the Note

Choose from the following note types.

• Quote: copy the author’s exact words in quotation marks.
• Paraphrase: restate the idea in your own words.
• Summarize: briefly explain the main idea.

4. Include the Page Number

If your source has pages, jot that down. It’ll save you time when adding citations later.

Avoiding Plagiarism While Taking Notes

Your goal isn’t just to collect information—it’s to use it ethically. These three steps will help:

1. Track Your Sources Carefully

Never assume you’ll remember where something came from. Write it down immediately, or it may sneak into your paper without proper credit.

2. Quote or Paraphrase with Purpose

Use quotes for powerful wording, paraphrase when you can say it more simply, and summarize to condense ideas. No matter what, always cite the source.

3. Check Your Work

Use plagiarism detection tools before submitting your final paper, or better yet—develop habits that keep you honest from the start.

Example Note Card Layouts

Here’s what your note cards might look like.

Quote Note Card

• Source #: 2
• Topic: Funding Cuts After Challenger
• Note: “The Challenger tragedy deeply impacted public support and congressional funding for space exploration” (Smith 42).
• Page #: 42

Paraphrase Note Card

• Source #: 2
• Topic: Funding Cuts After Challenger
• Note: Smith reports that after the Challenger disaster, public opinion and government support for NASA dropped significantly (42).
• Page #: 42

Summary Note Card

• Source #: 2
• Topic: Funding Cuts After Challenger
• Note: Overall, the Challenger explosion led to a decline in NASA’s funding and public enthusiasm.
• Page #: 42

Now that you know how to gather your research and organize your notes, it's time to try it for yourself!

In the Got It? section, you’ll get a chance to show off your skills, test your note-taking know-how, and ensure you’re ready to move forward with confidence.

• Ready to become a note-taking master?