Select a main point. ■ Once you have finished your reading and note taking, review the information you have gathered. As you do this, identify a specific part, feature, or feeling to focus on in your report. The focus of the research paper on pages 311–315 is the way Chinese-American food evolved to be its own cuisine.
Arrange your cards. ■ Keeping the focus of your paper in mind, put your note cards in the best possible order.
Outlining Your Information
Write a rough outline. ■ Finally, prepare an outline for the body of your paper. Begin by listing the headings (questions) written on the top of your note cards in the same order that you have just arranged them. Leave enough space between the headings to include supporting facts and details. If you are not required to include a formal outline with your report, this quick outline may be all you need.