Some Methods for Integrating Planning and Note-Taking

Though opportune, the common technique of writing down your notes always on dissertation/thesis paper is far from model. The main problem is that your issues are fixed on paper. Here you will find three alternatives providing greater flexibility

1. Index cards: While you are researching for your dissertation/thesis paper, you should jot down each idea, quotation, fact, or paraphrase on an individual index card. Small cards are the easiest means to work with. Once you have gathered all your index cards, you should replace them into the best order, so you obtain an outline, although you will certainly need to cut this outline down to the main points.
2. Computer: Another way of moving the notes around is to utilize the computer. You are able to gather your points constantly, as you would on dissertation/thesis paper. You can classify your thoughts when you are prepared to begin planning. Benefit from “outline view” in Word that makes it much easier to organize your points hierarchically. The method is good when you do not worry to being tied to the computer from the beginning of the writing process to the end.
3. The circle method: The method is projected to get your thoughts onto one page, where you will observe them all. Once you have any thought, you should jot it down and then put it into a circle. When you have a thought that supports another thought, you should do the same, but link the circles with a line. Sustaining source material may be presented shortly by a page allusion inside a circle. The benefit of the circle technique is that you are able to see how things link together.