If you’ve never used index cards before, don't worry. They are an efficient and user-friendly way to take down valuable information. Like taking your note card holder with you, it is also important to keep a full stack of index cards with you at all times so that you don't run out. | LESSON Getting Started LESSON SUMMARY To write a good research paper you need the right materials. In this lesson you ll learn what to have at your fingertips so that you ll save valuable time throughout the research process. Before you walk into a library and ask questions or log onto the Internet it makes sense to be prepared. What essential tools or equipment do you need to start your research paper The basic materials are easy to get your hands on and are surprisingly simple. To be prepared you will need a current library card from a local or city library a highlighter a plastic or metal index card holder lined index cards a folder with pockets access to Internet facilities or equipment 15 GETTING STARTED Getting a Library Card Almost every town and city has a public library museum or cultural institution that is open to everyone free of charge. If you don t live near a public library or your community doesn t have one you can usually join and have access to a college or university library. Getting a library card and reading card at any one of these institutions will provide you with access to all kinds of invaluable books magazines maps reference materials rare collections and most important of all knowledgeable librarians who can personally assist you in your research. While most library cards are issued within a few days it is a good idea to get one before you start your project. If there is any waiting time it won t interfere with your work or your deadlines. Highlighting Materials In most cases you are not able to take out reference books from a library. Sometimes you can use and read books from a collection for a specific period of time before they have to be returned. If you need to take home the information you can photocopy or print out computer listings of the material available to you. A highlighter allows you to go through a lot of printed information quickly and highlight those page numbers titles or chapter headings that you don t have time to .
