Note Taking DOs and DONTs

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Welcome to Part 1 of our Study Techniques series, let’s start out with … Note Taking!

Note Taking.

For some it’s a ride or die 😎, and for others it just makes them sigh 😖.

In any case, note taking when done correctly can significantly elevate a student’s ability to:

✅understand concepts

✅integrate knowledge over different modules

AND

✅can be a life saver when it comes to memorising content.

But what do the best notes look like? 🤔 Pages laminated with highlighter ink, with sticky notes and note tabs embellishing every page???

Alas, there are some ✨DOs and ❌DONTs when it comes to note taking that can set you in the right path to finding an effective note taking style.

✨DOs✨

• Active Listening: Your notes start in class. Actively listening to the main point’s highlighted by your teacher, asking questions and clarifying those points in class is where the majority of your learning should be. Note will solidify those concepts

• Use Keywords and Abbreviations: Develop your own shorthand. Using keywords and abbreviations helps to condense information into an easily manageable format

• Organise, Organise, Organise: Structure your notes by topics or themes. Creating a well planned and holistic system prior to note taking with make reviewing and locating information a breeze when it comes to exam preparation.

• Review Regularly: Regularly revisit and revise your notes. Spaced repetition reinforces your understanding and helps commit information to long-term memory.

• Edit and Refine: Your notes are a work in progress. Don't hesitate to go back, edit, and refine them for clarity and completeness.

• Headings and Subheadings: Break down your notes into clear headings and subheadings. This helps create a visual hierarchy and makes it easier to review.

• Summarize: Practice the art of summarization. Condense information into your own words to reinforce understanding and save time during review.

• Interactive Note-Taking: Incorporate interactive elements like diagrams, charts, and mind maps. Visual aids can enhance comprehension and make your notes more engaging

• Utilize Technology Wisely: Leverage technology for note-taking, whether it's using note-taking apps or recording lectures (with permission) for later review.

• Collaborate with Peers: Compare and discuss notes with classmates. This can provide different perspectives and fill in any gaps in your understanding.

• Gameify your notes: By creating your notes in such a way that you can ‘play’ or regularly interact and test your knowledge, you ensure spaced repetition in a fun format!

❌DONTs❌

• Avoid Verbatim Notes: Resist the urge to transcribe lectures word for word. Instead, focus on capturing key concepts and ideas by writing them in a way that you understand. This can also highlight topics you are less confidant about.

• Don't Rely Solely on Memory: Even if you have a good memory, avoid relying solely on it. Cross reference teaching materials to ensure accurate information and the incorporation of

• Avoid Overloading with Details: Capture the main ideas. Cluttering your notes can lead to becoming overwhelmed and breeding procrastination. The main points should jog smaller details from your memory

• Steer Clear of Last-Minute Cramming: Avoid cramming information right before exams. Spread your study sessions over time for better retention. Spaced repetition and connecting concepts are key

• Avoid OVER Highlighting: Highlighting is useful, but don't rely on it exclusively. Write brief notes or comments in the margins to supplement highlighted text.

• Avoid Passive Note-Taking: Don't passively transcribe information. Engage with the material by asking questions, making connections, and expressing your understanding.

• Don't Ignore Feedback: If your teacher provides feedback on your note-taking, don't ignore it. Use constructive criticism to refine your approach.

Note-taking is a process involving trial and error, whilst meticulous planning on how to structure notes as well as what content is appropriate to add to those notes is imperative, what even more important is getting started 🏃🏾**.**

Don’t be afraid to introspect on your note-taking and change your approach every now and then!

Don’t be afraid to be not-perfect at the beginning, you’ll get there eventually!

Best of Luck 🍀 with all your note taking endeavours, and remember these DOs and DONTs to make that journey easier 🛣️.