It is a good idea to write the author's last name first. This will help you later when you are writing your bibliography. You should take notes even if you have photocopied articles or printed web pages. Putting notes in your own words will help you identify and understand key points. It also helps you avoid plagiarism.
Note cards are a great way to gather and organize information.
Write one fact per card and include the source you used. Don't write on the top line of your card, you'll need that space later. There are a few times when you are allowed to copy directly from a source. Whenever you copy directly, you should put quotation marks around the information and properly credit the source. Under the wise and courageous leadership of President Mubarak, Egypt has been a key partner with the United States in working to build both regional security and global peace.