Note Taking Strategies
- Before reading the course assignment, predict and record (write down) the questions you expect to be answered in the selection.
- Look for answers to these questions as you read.
- Write the answers in your notes.
- Review your answers and notes after reading.
- Record and learn new words.
- Read the assigned selection before the lecture or class discussion.
- Predict and record questions that you anticipate will be covered in class.
- Listen for these predicted questions and record answers in your notes.
- Understand the lecturer and discussion leader: What is his/her specific purpose? How is his/her material /questions related to previous discussions, readings, lectures? What principles is he/she trying to bring out?
- Listen first, then write.
- Take notes on ideas, not a verbatim version of words (not a word for word account).
- Mentally visualize or reconstruct concepts and ideas in a personal way. Make a diagram, chart, figure, graph, etc. from the board and the text material.
- Record/write all diagrams, illustrations, charts with a proper label to identify such drawings so you will know what it is supposed to be later.
- Be systematic in note-taking, using the Cornell system, a two-column note-taking system, or something similar.
The Cornell System
The key to this system is a line drawn 2 1/2 inches from the left side of the paper. Students
take notes on the right hand side, taking down all the main points with supporting points,
details and examples to clarify them. After class students reduce, writing down key words,
main ideas and titles in the left hand column to jog his memory while studying. Students can
then cover their notes and recite from memory the main points based on the key words. The
steps in this process are:
RECORD
RECITE
RECITE
REFLECT
REVIEW
Remind students to label and date their notes, keeping subjects separate. Some students may not be aware of standard abbreviations and short cuts such as leaving out small unnecessary words. Teach students to leave blank lines between main points and, as much as possible, take notes in outline form. Students must understand that they will develop their own style of note-taking, but it must be a style that is organized and readable.
*Adapted from Walter Pauk, How to Study in College, 2nd ed. (New York: Houghton Mifflin Co., 1974)
