The following section discusses aspects of taking notes from lectures. Some general information is provided including the phases of note-taking and how to pick out the important points from all that your professor is saying. Next, we discuss some popular methods for taking notes, but remember that there is no "right way": what works for one student may not work for you. Try a couple of the methods in some classes to get a feel for them.
Good note-taking practice starts even before you enter the classroom and continues once the class has ended. Think about note-taking as three distinct phases:
1. Before Class:
2. During Class:
3. After Class:
Taking good notes is about recognizing the important points of a lecture, not about writing down every word your professor says. Here are some things you can look for to pick out these points:
1. Introductions and Conclusions:
Typically occur in the first and last 5-10 minutes of the lecture. The introduction outlines the main topic and the conclusion will wrap up ideas and often reiterates the main points.
2. Repetition:
When you hear a point being repeated, it's almost certain to be important. Repetition can be word for word, re-phrasing or re-wording a point, elaboration of a point or a series of examples.
3. Linking Expressions:
Are words and phrases that can signal that something is worth taking note of. Some examples include:
4. Elaboration:
Provides more information about a topic and can include more information to support the idea, an argument for or against the topic, some history and implications.