Note+Card+Format

Note cards help you keep track of individual ideas and are, therefore, an important part of research.

Here is the format to follow:

1. Write on a 4 x 6 white note card. 2. Use black ink. 3. Provide the following information on the second line of the card: 4. Skip a line and then **QUOTE** directly from the text. Be sure to write down only one idea. If the author makes another important point in the same paragraph or on the same page, record it on another card using this format (You will be surprised- and pleased - to see how quickly information accumulates.) 5. Skip a line, write "1," and then **PARAPHRASE** the quote in complete, grammatical sentences. 6. Skip another line, write "2," and then **EXPLAIN** in a complete sentence or two how you may use this idea in your paper. Be thorough. Use the back of the card if necessary, but don't use a second 4 x 6 card. 7. In pencil, provide a classification symbol in the right hand corner of the card. 8. Write your full name, date, and English period on the back of the card.
 * Author's last name
 * Date of publication
 * Page on which quote or paraphrase can be found

If you do not provide internal citations for information you quote or paraphrase, you are guilty of plagiarism, which, as you know, is a serious infraction carrying stiff penalties.

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