one way to use index cards is to write down all info on the current research book you are using, so when it comes time for bibliography to be written, you only have to alphebitize cards, not a list, and it's much easier. Another way is to write down evidence on cards (quote, page number, book) so when you use them in your paper you can give correct MLA format, and you don't have to look in the book all the time. These are just a few uses...