| |
Take notes for a purpose, not just to fill up your note book. You don't get credit for the amount of notes you take, but it pays off if they are used properly.
- Successful class notes depend on good listening skills and concentration.
- Develop your own personal note-taking style and stick to it. Use what works for you, not what works for someone else.
- Write neatly and quickly. Make sure you can read and understand your own notes.
- The purpose of taking notes is to get the KEYPOINTS. A keypoint is a main idea; an answer to an exam question. Do not attempt to copy every word of the lecture. Concentrate on the topic, and then fill in the specifics.
- In taking notes, try to organize what the lecturer is saying. Look for organizational clues from the professor:
| |
• |
Listen for phrases like "another important factor" and "a third point". |
| |
• |
Be alert to the professor repeating a phrase or idea. |
| |
• |
If the professor writes something on the blackboard consider it very important. |
If it is difficult to organize your notes in class, then review and re-organize them soon afterwards.
- Leave a 2" margin on each side of your notebook page. Write notes on one side of the page and use the other side of the page for comments, observations, and questions. Use the margin space for putting notes from your textbook and other readings.
- If you do not understand something in your notes, go see your instructor. S/he will be happy to clear up any questions you may have.
- Review and edit your notes after each class period. This will help transfer the information from short-term to long-term memory.
- Do not depend on other peoples notes. They, like you, have there own personal style and you may run into trouble trying to understand their writing and terminology.
- Indicate the date at the beginning of each series of lecture notes so if you miss a class you will know exactly what you have and what you have to get.
|
|
