Note Taking Kathleen High
Fundamentals Observe Record Review
Observing involves: Set the stage “Be here now” in class Watch for clues
Set the Stage Complete outside assignments Bring the right materials Sit front and center Conduct a short pre-class review Clarify your intentions Preview – Survey entire book Keep it short Look for familiar concepts Summaries Chapter headlines/section titles & paragraph headlines Look for recommended readings Determine strategy – skimming or all 9 steps Step 2: Outline Complex – take time to understand Section Titles & paragraphs serve as outline guides Use outline format for you Step 3: Question Before begin – what you want? Write down questions If irrelevant, ask what you want from school (jumping through hoops) Playful/creative questions Lots of time for some subjects
“Be here now” in class Accept your wandering mind Notice your writing Be with the instructor Notice your environment Postpone debate Let go of judgments about lecture styles Participate in class activities Relate class to your goals Think critically about what you hear
Watch for clues Be alert to repetition Listen for introductory, concluding, and transition words and phrases Watch the board or overhead projector Watch the instructor’s eyes Highlight the obvious clues Notice the instructor’s interest level
Record - Common types of note taking Cornell format Mind maps Outline format Paragraph format
Record - Additional hints Use only key words Use pictures and diagrams Copy material from the board Use a three-ring binder Use only one side of paper
Record - Additional hints (con’t) Use 3 x 5 cards Keep your own thoughts separate Use an “I’m lost” signal Label, number and date all notes Use standard abbreviations
Record - Additional hints (con’t) Leave blank space Use tape recorders effectively Use complete sentences when material is important Take notes in different colors Use graphic signals
Review Review within 24 hours Edit notes Fill in key words in the left-hand corner Use your key words as clues to recite Conduct short weekly review periods Consider typing up your notes Create mind map summaries