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Take better notes

Taking notes effectively during lectures or classes is an important skill. It allows you to identify key information from your studies, and it forms a foundation for studying for your tests.

In this section, we will explore note-taking benefits, tips and strategies. 

Level up your day

This video teaches a six-step system to efficiently extract information from textbooks, take better notes, and retain knowledge in your long-term memory. Master strategies for effective note-taking and maximizing learning in class.

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Why take notes?

There are so many benefits to note-taking! Consider some of the benefits below. Which ones stand out to you?

  • Prevents distraction
  • Engages the mind (prevents you from falling asleep!)
  • Helps clarify concepts and understand the content. This is very important for studying and memorization
  • Helps to collect and organize information before studying
  • It even builds confidence in the material and reduces overall stress!

The three stages of note-taking

There are usually three main stages when note-taking in your classes:

1. Before class (prep) - minimum 5-10 minutes. Briefly review previous notes and get a sense of what's coming up. This gives you a focus even before you enter the classroom. 

2. During class - Participate and take notes. Focus on capturing main ideas using point form and abbreviations. If you miss something, mark it with a question mark or leave extra space in your notes to address later.

3. After class (encourages retention) - minimum 15-20 minutes. This is a key step that helps with comprehension and setting the stage before studying. Clean up and organize your notes, filling in any gaps using resources like your textbook. You can also begin to create study notes for yourself during this stage as well.

Note-taking formats

Traditional Format

Traditional formats - or the outlining method - is one of the main note-taking systems used. It tends to be simple and straightforward: write your title, then add related information in point form underneath. 

Cornell Method

A popular technique in schools, the Cornell system combines traditional note-taking during class with adding key words, phrases or questions when reviewing notes after class. It also involves summarizing each page of your notes in full sentences.

Do you like the Cornell method? Download our template below to help you get started.

Concept Mapping

Concept mapping is specific to the material you are learning. If you are covering processes, you might try taking notes using a flow chart (or chains). If you are covering several terms that appear quite similar, you might try a comparison-contrast chart to help distinguish the concepts. 

Mind Mapping

Mind mapping is quite similar to chains or flow charts. You start with a main topic in the middle of your page and then branch out to groups of related ideas. 

Do you like the mind-mapping approach? Download our template below to help you get started.

Should you handwrite or type?

Now that we've explored some formats, should you handwrite notes or type them? It depends on your preference and both approaches can be effective. Explore the chart below to help you decide. 

Handouts, Videos and Summary

Note-taking is a multi-step process (pre-class, during, and after) that helps you identify and understand content prior to studying for tests and quizzes. If you're interested in a summary of the information in this section, please download the handout below.

This handout contains tips on writing more quickly using short-hand, a checklist on listening and note-taking, and templates for various note-taking styles.  

You can also check out a short note-taking video below on the strategies covered in this section:

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