Good note taking is a skill which requires practice. Use these helpful hints to help you on your way.
Good notes are:
- Effective - to be effective notes must serve your purpose.
- Short - notes that cover everything and do not miss out anything are pretty useless. Remember you will not be able to use your notes any more effectively than the original if they are too long.
- Structured - structuring your notes shows you how you think about and understand the topic.
- Bold - your notes should be bright, stand out and be full of features that are helpful to you.
Get Organised
Folders, pens and paper are essential to good note taking! At the top of each page, write the title of the book/lecture, author/lecturer and date. If taking notes from a book, it may be helpful to note any page reference. This information will help you when you come to revise and if you want to check back on the facts.
Headings
Good notes use a system of headings.
- Main Ideas - these could be written in capital letters, underlined or highlighted.
- Sub-Headings - the first letter could be written in capitals or numbers, circles or different colours could be used.
- Key Points - don’t try and copy down large chunks of text. Take brief notes, or make drawings. Note in full any formulae or calculations you need later.