TAKING CLASS NOTES
Most courses contain a lecture component that presents the major course concepts and the information most likely to be included on tests. However, many students underestimate the importance of listening and taking notes effectively. The following suggestions will help you to listen and take notes more effectively.ListeningMost people are poor listeners. Most of us can only recall about half of what we hear and about 25% of that is incorrect! This means that although a student may be listening in class, that may not be sufficient to remember the information. Taking good notes can serve as an important tool for retaining the material presented by the professor. Note TakingFollowing is one method for taking notes that may be useful:
Taking neat, well-organized, understandable notes is a key to doing well in any class,
regardless ofthe subject area. Use the following guidelines to improve your note-taking skills:
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Review your previous notes. Refresh you mind so that you are ready to move smoothly into the next topic. Flag questions, or make margin comments for test preparation.
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Compare your notes to other students you know in the class - are you getting the same things they are? |
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Make sure you put your name, date, and class in the top corner of your paper. A paper with that information on it is much less likely to be lost, get out of place, or even be thrown away by someone else accidentally. |
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Don't try to get everything down word for word. Pay attention to what the teacher emphasizes - by tone of voice, by repitition, and by writing on the board.
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Always seek to make connections. When you hear something that relates to previous notes, mark that with Go back to previous or otherwise flag it.
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When page numbers in the text are mentioned, always jot them down in the margin.
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Try to use a general outlining technique that includes TOPIC, SUBTOPICS, and DETAILS.
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Ask questions if something is not clear! |
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Review your notes while they are still fresh in your mind. Often, information that you didn't have time to write down will come back immediately and you can record it. |
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If not already in place, put you notes in a storage binder or folder in chronological order with previous notes. |
(C) 2004 J.T./HAC
Taking notes is an activity that requires both planning and reflection. It is important to plan ahead for note taking by buying an appropriate pad, notebook or binder to keep each course’s notes together, carrying it and a pen or pencil with you to class, and sitting in class where you have a an unobstructed view of the professor, the board and other visuals i.e. the overhead, projection screen, charts, etc. It is also important to reflect on and review notes immediately after class. Whatever system you find most useful for taking notes should result in information that you can review regularly, recite or repeat key concepts for retention, and reflect by connecting class information to other notes, discussions and readings.
