There are many options for research management tools, but ultimately, you're looking for two things: something to manage your references and something to manage your notes, outlines, and other pre-writing products. This is just personal preference, but I would suggest you try a few free tools to get a sense of them. Most products with a cost associated with them have a free trial version. Please don't purchase anything just because it's listed here; try it out first and see how it fits into your workflow.
Reference Manager
Notetaking & Organization
Email Butler University Libraries
Irwin Library: 317-940-9227
Science Library: 317-940-9937
CAT: 317-940-8575