Writing research papers entails a critical attention to every detail. Sound academic pieces never undervalue this noteworthy part in the process of research – taking quality notes.

Note-taking is a complex step in research writing. It is not as easy as copying some notes in a blackboard. There are a lot of imperatives to consider:

1. Be concise. Even if taking notes for background, sharpen it down to short but succinct phrases. But do not rely too much on mental notes for it is not 100% reliable.

2. Have more than one key source. Having two or more relevant sources gives weight to the research paper. It is also a determinant of a thorough research skill.

3. Copy contradictory arguments. Having opposing argument that is easy to rebut by another counterpoint is an excellent rhetorical device.

4. Always paraphrase. This is to avoid plagiarism. It is also essential to write down the words in one’s one word for it determines the writer’s comprehension of the text.

5. Be cautious in attributing. In using many sources it is important to attribute properly for it gives the paper credibility.

6. Be systematic. Have a system in writing that really works. An orderly note-taking will help eventually in writing drafts and outlines.

7. Write legibly. Writing haphazardly results to incomprehensible notes. Hand-written notes must always be clear to prevent misreading.

8. Write only the relevant. Scan for the key words and phrases that are significant to the research paper. Don’t just write everything down.

9. Use symbols and abbreviations. It is easier to take down notes if symbols and abbreviations are used. Just make sure that a legend is available so that the meanings of the symbols are also clear.

10. Review and edit the notes. After taking notes review and edit it. A single mistake like not being able to write the word "not" will totally distort the meaning of the text. Every single word in note-taking may affect the research paper.

With the painstaking effort in writing research papers it is really a must to know the nitty-gritty of taking down notes.

Research papers’ main objective is to create a quality academic piece that is nonetheless supported with credible evidences. And the only thing to achieve this is through a scrupulous and persistent note-taking.