Ask Yourself:    How do I keep track of my information?
                     How do I organize it once I'm ready to write?
                     How do I cite my sources correctly?
 
 

How can I possibly keep this all organized?

   There are many strategies that can help you organize your research. First,  think about how you will physically keep all this work safe! Do you have a pocket folder or envelope? Do you need a computer disk to save notes written in a word processing program? Maybe all of the above! Just make sure that you have a special place to keep all of your information because it will save you lots of time later in your project. Use a separate folder or disk and that way you'll always know where everything goes.
Here's a helpful checklist of all the steps in the research process.
Click on the dragonand print it to help you organize your project!

      Second, think about which way you want to keep notes.Sometimes your teacher will specify which strategies you're expected to use . For example, you may be required to write 3x5 note cards and turn them in as part of your project. Sometimes (when your teacher is very, very wise) you will be able to pick which strategy works best for you. If you learn about a strategy that seems like it would work really well for you, talk to your teacher to see if you can substitute one strategy for another. The important thing is that you can use the information you collect, so be brave young knight, keep talking to your teacher!

How do I take notes that I can actually use?
    Once you find information you need, you must write it down. This is called taking notes. You should always paraphrase (which means write the notes in your own words). You can take notes in several ways. You can use note cards, you can photocopy pages and highlight them, or you can use concept maps. You also may need to make an outline.
    One great way to take notes about web sites is to use the notepad accessory on your computer. We have simple steps for you to follow to use your notepad.

Click the notepad for directions.

Here's what a note card should look like and include:
 

How do I cite my sources in my notes?
    For more information about citing sources, check out the Nueva School's library page on research. You'll need to scroll down to the bottom of the page to find the links, but it's worth it!
Click here
 
 
 

How do I make an outline?
    Start with a big heading that is the title of the text.Then for each paragraph, list a main idea. Under these ideas, you can add facts. Here's an example:
 

Click on this quill  to learn how to take good notes. Don't know what a quill is? Click here to find out.  Don't forget to use your back button to return here! Click on the knight to learn more about creating outlines. Click on the dragon to learn about concept maps.