Steps in Writing an Effective Research Paper (cont.)

5. Develop an effective note taking process. This is critical!
   
   Read the original text, put it aside and then capture the information you have read by summarizing the information IN YOUR OWN WORDS without distorting the original meaning. If you can’t do this go back and re-read the text. If you don’t understand what you are reading you will not be able to summarize or paraphrase it. Include the citation in your notes.
   
   NEVER CUT AND PASTE INFORMATION FROM THE INTERNET INTO YOUR PAPER. If you believe the article contains vital information you should either print it out or clearly mark it as original text and email it to yourself or save in another document clearly labeled WORD-FOR-WORD TEXT FROM THE INTERNET. Be sure that you have the complete URL (web) address and other necessary information.
   
   You may want to print out a hardcopy of all of your web pages since sometimes web pages just “disappear” off of the Internet.
   
   There are quick, easy ways to take notes as you are reading. Develop a process that works for you (index cards, post-it notes, etc.). See examples of how to use note cards at Notetaking and Taking Notes.
   
   Be consistent in how you take notes which reflect a direct quote or paraphrase. If you take exact words from the original source, use quotation marks and complete reference information in your notes.
   
   Keeping your research in one place might help you stay organized. You might consider having a folder or large manila envelope for each of your projects or research assignments.