Studying and taking good notes go hand-in-hand. If you want to excel in school and get good grades, note-taking is a skill you need to master.
There are different ways to take notes, and your method depends on your learning style and preferences. No matter which method you prefer, these four productive note-taking tips for students can help you take better notes and learn more effectively.
Be an Active Listener
In class, pay attention to the lecture and understand the main points. Don’t just wait for the professor to finish so you can start writing. If you’re actively listening, you’ll be able to better process and retain the information.
If you have trouble paying attention in class, sit near the front and make eye contact with the professor. Taking notes will also help you stay focused. If you find your mind wandering, jot down a keyword or phrase to bring your attention back to the lecture.
Practice Abbreviations and Shortcuts
Developing abbreviations and symbols will help you write faster and save space on your notes. When you review your notes later, these abbreviations will also help jog your memory.
Use a notebook or a laptop to take notes. If you prefer taking notes by hand, use a pen with good ink flow so that your writing is legible.
Organize Your Notes
Once you have all your notes, it’s time to organize them. Create a system that works for you and helps you quickly find the information you need. Some students prefer to keep all their notes from one class together, while others like to organize their notes by topic.
Taking notes on paper supports memory but requires more time to organize. If you prefer digital notes, consider using a note-taking app that lets you tag, search, and share your notes.
Review Your Notes Regularly
Don’t wait until the night before an exam to review your notes. Reviewing your notes on a regular basis will help the information stick better and make studying for exams easier.
Set aside time each week to review your notes from all your classes. You can also use spare moments throughout the day, such as when you’re in line or on the bus, to scan your notes.
Taking good notes is an important study skill, but it’s not the only thing you need to do to succeed in school. School is hard enough without having to worry about taking good notes. These four productive note-taking tips can help students take better notes and learn more effectively. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at taking notes in no time!
