Choose a system for taking and maintaining notes. The most common method is to write notes on index cards, either 3 x 5 or 4 x 6 size. If possible, get index cards that are spiral-bound and perforated. You can also take notes on notebook paper and organize them in a binder. You may want to type your notes on the computer so you can have another copy in case you lose your cards. Whatever system you choose, be consistent with it throughout the writing process.
Make sure your notes include full bibliographical information like author, title, place, publisher, date, volume number and page numbers. Writing the Works Cited page will be much easier if all this information is easily accessible.
Number your notes. Assign numbers based on their place in the paper. Use your outline as a guide or write the outline as you put the cards in order by main idea and supporting details. Use the same numbering system that you have on the outline. For example, if you have three notes for topic 1, subtopic A, number these cards 1A(1), 1A(2) and 1A(3).