1. TRiO Student Support Services Note Taking
Student Support Services is a Title IV TRiO Program funded by the U.S. Department of Education. All services are FREE to qualified students.

2. Note Taking Process: Three Parts
Observing
Recording
Reviewing

3. Observe: see facts, relationships, events, and statements
Set the stage
Be focused in class
Watch for clues

4. Set the stage Complete outside assignments Bring the right materials
Sit front and center
Conduct a short pre-class review

5. Be Focused in Class Accept your wandering mind Be with the instructor
Participate in class activities
Relate the class to your goals
Think critically about what you hear

6. 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

7. Record: Write Your Observation -- Take Notes
Use the Cornell format of note taking
Create mind maps
Write notes in outline form
Use key words
Use pictures and diagrams
Write notes in paragraphs
Copy material from the board
Use a three-ring binder
Use only one side of a piece of paper
Use 3x5 cards

8. Record: continued Keep your own thoughts separate
Use an “I'm lost” signal
Label, number, and date all notes
Use standard abbreviations
Use blank space
Use tape recorders effectively
Use complete sentences when material is important
Take notes in different colors
Use graphic signals

9. Review Review within 24 hours Edit notes
Fill in key words in the left-hand column
Conduct short weekly review periods
Use your key words as cues to recite
Consider typing your notes
Create mind map summaries

10. Cornell Method: Example
Subject Notes
Key Word
Neuroanatomy: Divisions of the Nervous System The nervous system can be divided into “systems”. These systems are connected and function together. The Nervous System is divided into: The Central Nervous System and the Peripheral Nervous System.
Divisions of Nervous System
The Central Nervous System is divided into two major parts: the brain and the spinal chord. The Peripheral Nervous System is divided into two major parts, the somatic nervous system and the autonomic nervous system.
CNS
PNS

11. Mind Map Method: Visual representation to aid in memory retention
Central Nervous System
Brain
Spinal Cord

12. Graphic Signals: Time saving symbols
[ ], ( ), information that belongs together
*, important information
** !!! Extra important
> greater than
< less than
= equal to
 Ex: school
? huh / lost
?? big trouble, clear up immediately

13. The End
I hope you enjoyed this presentation. Please feel free to stop by the TRiO office suites and visit with us.