Using notecards is an effective way to organize information and thoughts when writing a research paper. Notecards allow you to physically organize sources and ideas outside of a document before arranging them into a paper. Here are the basic steps to use notecards effectively:
Start by making notecards for each source as you do research. On each notecard, include the author’s last name, publication year of the source, title of source, and page number(s) for any quotes or information from that source. Also briefly summarize the key information or quote on the notecard. This helps you identify sources later and attribute information properly in the paper.
As you research, sort notecards into preliminary categories or topics that seem relevant to your thesis. For example, if writing about the Great Depression, you may have categories for “causes,” “government response,” and “social impact.” This initial organization allows you to see connections between sources and ideas as you do further research. Leave space on notecards to move them between categories.
Once research is complete, rearrange notecards to start developing the structure and flow of ideas in your paper. For each main point or paragraph, write it as a topic heading on an empty notecard. Then drag relevant notecards underneath to provide support and evidence. You may have multiple notecards under some topics as paragraphs are fleshed out.
Review notecard groupings and rearrange as needed to refine your argument and the logical sequencing of ideas. For example, if two topic cards are similar, combine them. Or separate notecards that are more relevant for different sections of the paper. Continue rearranging notecards until you have a clear outline of source materials organized by paragraph topic.
Begin writing your first draft by using the notecard outline. Transfer information verbatim or rephrase as needed. Be sure to cite sources as you include direct quotes or unique ideas from notecards. Having sources organized will make incorporating evidence and citing it seamlessly much easier.
As you write, you may find gaps where additional research is needed. Leave space to add new notecards for any sources located to fill gaps. Continue rearranging notecards and updating your outline as new information is included.
After the initial draft is written, review notecards again to identify any sources not yet included that could strengthen your argument. Look for opportunities to incorporate more evidence and variety into examples or analysis. Reread notecards against your paper to ensure all source materials were thoroughly utilized.
Notecards provide an effective physical method to pull relevant information from various sources located through research. Their portability allows for constant rearrangement to refine your outline and argument structure before starting the writing process. Using notecards is a valuable prewriting strategy for processing research and developing a clear organization of ideas for any research paper.