By: Lauren Beth Kelly
On a basic level, note-taking may seem pretty self-explanatory. However, there are in fact several distinct methods to which it can be applied usefully. While illustrating the benefits of quality note-taking, I will also define for you some basic note-taking techniques to help you with high school and college class lectures.
Quality Notes
Note-taking trains the brain to identify important information. With note-taking, the act of recording lecture information is often more important than rereading or adding things. The simple act of writing down information helps you learn and remember it more efficiently. Also, there is evidence to suggest that the act of writing, as opposed to typing,can be more impactful to you in the long run.
To take quality lecture notes, first read the material that will be covered, as this will make note-taking easier. When you read ahead of time, you’ll be better prepared to figure out what’s important and what isn’t. Plus, you’ll be able to ask good questions and participate in a way that demonstrates preparation and interest.
It’s also important to watch for your instructor’s cues. Often, instructors will indirectly do or say things to give hints about information or ideas that could appear on tests. If an instructor goes into a subject with great detail, then that’s usually indicative of what will appear on a test. Be sure to look or listen for actions or words your instructor does or says frequently.
Most importantly, give yourself room to go back and add information. This will help you process things and ensure you understand the information. Leaving extra space for the insertion of additional materials like handouts, study guides, or other notes is always helpful. Also, leave room on each page and after each important section for a short summary of the material that you covered.
Note-taking techniques
In general, note-taking can be effectively broken down into two distinct categories: linear and non-linear. With linear note-taking, notes are gathered and written sequentially. An example of this form is an outline. Here, notes are categorized via Roman and Arabic numerals. Below is an illustration of the basic type of structure for an outlining format:
Alternatively, as an example of non-linear formatting, the Cornell system tends to work better for mathematical and scientific note-taking.
Another type of non-linear formatting includes mapping, which uses graphics or diagrams to organize information, and is useful for visual learners. This structure may include colors, small graphics, or symbols to help you visualize information more easily. It is commonly drawn from a main purpose or goal in the center of the page and then branches outward to identify all the ideas connected to that central point.
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I think this is so helpful. Often times my notes are a mixture of my professor’s points and my own thoughts but organizing them and writing neatly are difficult. Thanks for this!