Note Taking Tips

  • Notes help you remember information
  • Find a method that works for you; here is a sampling of note taking methods
             (see the Reference section for more on note taking methods)
  • Read the textbook and course readings slowly, before class
    • Take notes as you read
  • Listen actively in class
  • Don't rely on the instructor's presentation notes
  • If you don't understand something, ask questions
    • Participate in class discussions
    • Talk to your teacher
  • Keep your notes simple
    • Use keywords and very short sentences
      • Use white space to separate major ideas
      • Use abbreviations and/or symbols in place of sentences
      • Colour-code using different pens, pencils, highlighter, post-it notes, etc.
      • Use only one side of the paper
    • Focus on key concepts
      • Anything the instructor says you need to know or will be on a test
      • Anything repeated
      • Anything emphasized (example: has a PowerPoint slide, is written on the board)
      • Relationships between ideas
    • Paraphrase in your own words
    • Write only enough to trigger memories
  • Rewrite, organize, clarify, and expand your notes after classOrganize your class notes; keeping an organized notebook improves grades
    • Use a three-ring binder - one for each course
    • Relate concepts to concrete, real-life examples
    • Combine text and images