Note-taking is the regular collection of information from multiple sources, which is necessary for students, professionals, and non-professionals alike. It requires sophisticated human behavior and cognitive capabilities.
How can you take note better?
Here are some tips to help you take better notes:
- Prepare yourself
- Be a good listener
- Take handwritten notes
- Concentrate on keywords
- Use abbreviations
- Sort through your notes
- Review your notes often
Prepare yourself
Before the start of any class, meeting, or lecture, make sure you have all of your note-taking materials arranged and ready to go. If you’re writing on paper, have a notepad with lots of blank pages and extra writing instruments on hand.
If you’re using a laptop, ensure that it’s completely charged or that you have access to a power outlet. If you use glasses, bring them with you in case the teacher or lecturer writes something significant on a black or whiteboard.
Be a good listener
Many people make the mistake of blindly jotting down every word without fully absorbing what is being said when taking notes. Instead, make an attempt to comprehend the subject matter while in class. Concentrate on what is being said, then ask questions if you don’t understand.
Take handwritten notes
Although taking notes on a laptop is handy, research suggests that taking notes by hand improves knowledge retention. Also, doing handwriting can avoid you from being distracted. How to get rid of distractions while studying?
Concentrate on essential words or keywords
Good note-takers can determine the most important information. Instead of whole sentences, they write down specific words or key phrases on their preferrable device or paper to check out later.
Use abbreviations
The typical individual can only write 20-30 words per minute by hand, yet talk at 150-200 words per minute. To keep up with the pace of the lecture, you need design your own shorthand method.
Sort through your notes
After you take note every, don’t forget to use headings, subheadings, and lists in your note. It beneficially assists you to organize material and make it easier to examine later, especially for exam. Learn How to better your exam preparation!
Review your notes often
Do not just take notes and leave them somewhere. You must regularly review your notes. It can assist to strengthen the material in your memory and ensure you don’t miss anything vital.
Rotana K., English 