Try to summarize the information in your own words and place quotes in quotation marks. The index cards, or notes on your computer, can then be used as the basis for your paper. Using an outline can help organize your research material. It will also help show some common links between ideas. By using an outline you can also eliminate material that is not really pertinent to your paper.
Some students find using a working outline helps.
This is basically a rough draft of an outline, highlighting topics and subtopics. A final outline further enhances your paper. It should bring together the material for your paper and help further weed out unnecessary information. Some instructors may want to see copies of one or both outlines. Follow your instructor s specified format.