How to Take Notes You’ll Actually Use
If we had a dollar for every set of notes we took that we (1) couldn’t read the handwriting, (2) have no idea why we wrote something down, or (3) couldn’t easily find info for later studying, we’d have a lot of dollars. Students have a hard time knowing what they should be writing down, how to organize it, and how to take notes that will be useful to them later. We’re here to help. When we say ‘note taking’ what we really mean is ‘things you write down while actively paying attention in class or doing homework that will help you do well on a later test or assignment.’ We’ll refer to that mouthful of words as ‘note taking’ for the rest of this newsletter.
Tips for Notes You’ll Actually Use
Think about essays and exams while taking notes: Use your syllabi, study guides, essay topics, and unit test topics to help you focus on the ‘important stuff’ and take notes that actually support your later studying.
Use your own words: Writing notes down in your own words helps with memorization and in language you’ll understand when you look back later.
Handwritten beats typed notes: Handwriting activates and engages parts of the brain for memory and retention that typing doesn’t by forcing you to think about what you are writing down as you write. Check out the study here. You can also scan or upload handwritten notes online to use for studying.
Organize with headings: Clearly label the topics and sections within notes to easily find for studying and to organize your thoughts.
Keep everything in one place: Designate a binder, folder, or notebook to refer back to.
Action Item: Have your student pick a note taking method (using the tips above in any method) and stick to it for 2 weeks. Reevaluate the notes after and see where improvements can be made to make sure they are useful for an upcoming test.