Five tips to help you take notes

Cornell method

Divide the page into two columns. The left (it can also serve as the reverse side of the previous page) bit narrower, it will be the topics, plans, basic ideas, new words. The right to record all you can, draw diagrams, tables - the usual abstract, but do not forget to mark those questions left. From time to time close the right-hand column, and remember what was discussed. Can you tell it in your own words? Try it, and then check yourself.

In some embodiments, the system leave room at the bottom of the page for a summary of the written, but it is not always effective, though, and can help you to repeat large amounts of material.

Use color "beacons"

Forget about the status quo and bring with colored pens, markers, pencils. Paint your notes, draw diagrams, highlight headers - all this will help you focus on Main and do not forget anything, and in the process of work with the information you will remember it in a natural way, without cramming.

other facilities

If possible, work with a laptop. There are many special programs that allow you to quickly enter text immediately organize information, etc. In addition, you can at the same time to discuss with your lecture classmates.

If you are already using it, try to get back to the notebooks and pens. Probably, such a fundamental change to make lectures more interesting, and their record - easier and more efficient. In addition, paper made some things easier than on a computer (e.g., color scheme, or "beacons").

Abbreviations

In the summary, you can use anything - computer slang, shorthand, even Morse code - they are for your convenience. There are many techniques to reduce the word - it is possible, for example, to remove some of the letters, some written differently, easier; use instead of the most common words of the other, shorter - or special icons. If you are working on your computer, try a program like Texter (Windows) or TextExpander (for Macintosh) - they will help you to type faster by suggesting words that have already been met in texts.

Do not write

It never hurts to just sit back and listen instead to outline every word. You will be able to follow the idea of ​​the lecturer and ask questions. If you can record lectures on audio, even better - then you listen in a calm atmosphere already familiar text and record the main points.

Five Classic Ways to Boost Your Note-Taking [Chris Lesinski]