Studying Effectively

Note Taking Tips

• Notes help you remember information
• Find a method that works for you; here is a sampling of note taking methods
       (see the Reference section for more on note taking methods)
• Read the textbook and course readings slowly, before class
  • Take notes as you read
• Listen actively in class
• Don't rely on the instructor's presentation notes
• If you don't understand something, ask questions
  • Participate in class discussions
  • Talk to your teacher
• Keep your notes simple
  • Use keywords and very short sentences
    • Use white space to separate major ideas
    • Use abbreviations and/or symbols in place of sentences
    • Colour-code using different pens, pencils, highlighter, post-it notes, etc.
    • Use only one side of the paper
  • Focus on key concepts
    • Anything the instructor says you need to know or will be on a test
    • Anything repeated
    • Anything emphasized (example: has a PowerPoint slide, is written on the board)
    • Relationships between ideas
  • Paraphrase in your own words
  • Write only enough to trigger memories
• Rewrite, organize, clarify, and expand your notes after classOrganize your class notes; keeping an organized notebook improves grades
  • Use a three-ring binder - one for each course
  • Relate concepts to concrete, real-life examples
  • Combine text and images