Note Taking
By
Go to class prepared
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Use a three-ring binder instead of a
spiral or bound book. Pages can be
easily removed for reviewing.
Handouts can be inserted into your
notes for cross-referencing.
Bring highlighters to class.
Instructors will frequently make
comments like, "This is an
important concept." Or, "Make sure
you understand this."
Improve your listening skills
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Start by entering the classroom with a
positive attitude. Going to class thinking,
"This is the last place I want to be today"
only sets the stage for inattentive
listening.
Make a conscious effort to pay attention.
Adapt. When a lecture takes an
unexpected detour, students have a
tendency to "zone out." Before you know
it, the lecture got back on track five
minutes ago, and you missed crucial
information.
Develop a note taking method
that works for you.
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Start each new lecture on a new page,
and date and number each page. The
sequence of material is important.
Write on one side of the paper only. You
can set them out side-by-side for easier
reviewing when studying for an exam.
Leave blank spaces. This allows you to
add comments or note questions later.
Note all unfamiliar vocabulary or
concepts you don't understand. This
reminds you to look them up later.
Four methods for note taking
 Mind
mapping
 Cornell style
 Informal paragraphs
 Outlining
MIND MAPPING
Cornell
Outline
Main idea:
Note taking
Methods
Mind
Mapping
Informal
Paragraphs
INFORMAL PARAGRAPHS
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Main Note taking Methods—mind mapping,
informal paragraphs, Cornell, and outline.
Mind mapping—visual, drawing a picture, nonlinear, big picture and details, add arrows and
lines, integrates brain activity.
Informal paragraphs—works for difficult or
disorganized lectures, works when instructor uses
lots of quotes, best to use short phrases and
abbreviations, need to be able to write fast.
Conventional Outline—linear, left brained-for
detailed person, works best to leave space.
Cornell—divided page, place for keywords in left
margin, linear but can integrate mind maps.
CORNELL
Methods
Can use
mind maps
w/ Cornell
Use abbrev.
Cornell: divided page, place for
keywords in left margin, linear
but can integrate other
methods.
Mind mapping: visual drawing,
non-linear, big picture and
details, add arrows and lines,
integrates brain activity.
OUTLINE
I. Note taking methods
A. Outline
1. Linear
2. Useful for including details
B. Mind Mapping
1. Non Linear
2. Visual
C. Cornell
1. Divided page
2. Left Margin for keywords and concepts
D. Informal paragraphs
1. Best for students who can write fast
2. Use short phrases rather than full sentences
II. Review methods… and so forth
Pay attention to content
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Details, facts, or explanations that
expand or explain the main points that
are mentioned. Don't forget examples.
Material written on the chalkboard or on
a transparency, including drawings or
charts.
Information that is repeated or spelled
out.
If your mind wanders—bring it back to
the class.
Pay attention to content
Be alert to repetition of ideas—the
information may be significant.
 Listen for transition phrases—“the
following 3 factors…” or “First….”
 Information on the board or overhead is
important.
 Is the instructor animated with a lively
tone of voice? It must be important!
 Connect with the instructor—watch facial
expressions and body language.
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Set the stage
Complete outside assignments—Helps you
know what the instructor is talking about.
 Bring the right materials—don’t forget
pencils and paper.
 Sit where you learn best—where will you
be least distracted?
 Conduct a short pre-class review—look for
main ideas, connect with the subject!
 Relate the class to your goals. Keep your
eye on the prize!!
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Review and edit your notes
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Edit with a different coloured pen to
distinguish between what you wrote in
class and what you filled in later.
Edit for words and phrases that are
illegible or don't make sense. Write out
abbreviated words that might be unclear
later.
Fill in key words and questions in the
left-hand column.
Note anything you don't understand by
underlining or highlighting to remind you
to ask the instructor.
Tips
Label, number and date all notes!
 Invent and use a lost signal (???, check,
ask), then ask for help later.
 Review notes within 24 hours—or sooner!!
(We lose up to 80% of information from
our Short Term memories within 24
hours). Reviewing helps move this
information to our Long Term Memory.
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Tips
 Get
to know other students—share
notes and ideas.
 Use highlighters and different colors
of ink to emphasize key ideas.
 3x5 cards—create flashcards from
your notes.
 Edit notes in your first review.
 Add keywords in the left column.
THANK YOU
Thank you for your time and attention.
If you require additional information,
please contact the Academic Advising
and Disabilities Learning Unit.