Creating bibliography cards for each source is extremely important when using numerous sources for an assignment. Once a student has decided that a particular source has information to be noted, a source or bibliography card should be created. This will help the student in creating tags (internal citations) to include on note cards since the tag is determined by the bibliographic entry (what will be the works cited entry on the final paper).

1. The writer writes the names of the books, encyclopedias, websites, library databases, interviews, magazines, journals, and/or newspapers on these 3 x 5 index cards.

2. Each source is written on a separate 3 x 5 card (source card), following the correct format. If using colored cards, the writer should use a different color for each source.

3. The writer should copy the information carefully, as these cards will eventually become the Works Cited page. The first line of the entry on the card begins at the left hand margin. The remainder of the entry is indented ½ inch.

4. After all of the sources are written on source cards, the writer should arrange the cards in alphabetical order according to the name or first word on the entry, unless the word is a, an, or the. If the first word is a, an, or the, then the second word is used to put the cards in alphabetical order.

5. If correct MLA format and complete information is used for the source cards, then the writer can easily copy and paste the information when it is time to do the Works Cited page.

6. Students can also write a brief summary or abstract of the article under the Works Cited or bibliographic entry, which can be helpful if students have to create an annotated bibliography.

Sample Cards