How to take good notes-- The University Student's Guide to Success
Yes, we are still home, learning online because of the pandemic but that doesn't mean that we shouldn't take notes. You may think it's unnecessary to take notes when google or even recordings of your class are right at your fingertips. But, making your own notes is one of the best ways to learn. Here is the university student's guide to take good notes:
How to Take Good Notes – The University Student’s Guide to Success
BY: JAMILLA MORGAN
It’s no secret that university is hard. You know that. I’ve been here for two weeks and I know that. My dog knows that. Since this is common knowledge, answer this: Why would you make it any harder?
I’m sure you wouldn’t – at least, not knowingly – but if you haven’t been taking any notes in your classes then you may be doing just that. Don’t worry just yet though. I’m here to guide you through this process and ensure that you do all you can to succeed, and the first step is learning how to take good notes.
Why You Should Take Notes
I can already see some of you giving me the side-eye. Who needs notes when lecturers upload their notes to OurVLE, right? Why would you write notes when all the lectures are recorded? It may seem like a no-brainer to you now, but you may be setting up yourself for disaster – especially if you’re the procrastinating type.
Ways of Taking Notes
Like most things in life, notetaking offers variety. If you’re like me and can’t deny the smell of a good book, you might lean towards using paper to jot down information. If you’re an environmentalist however, and prefer not to use paper, or if you just can’t read your own handwriting, then you may want to go the electronic route. Fortunately, I’ll be discussing both so you can decide what is right for you.
Traditional Note Taking
Here are some ways you can take notes traditionally:
Mind Mapping
For this method, you write the central idea in the middle of the page (in a cloud, circle – anything you want) and extend branches to its various subpoints. This method works especially well if you’re a visual learner.
The Outline Method
In this method you use headings for the main topic followed by indentations (with bullet points) for your subtopics. This method shows a clear hierarchy of the topic and its relevant subtopics. It is useful in creating a general sense of what you are learning and is therefore useful in studying.
The Cornell Method
With this method, you divide your page into three sections: notes, cues, and summary. In the “Notes” section of the page, jot down the most important points from your lecture. The “Cues” section is where you should write prompts and potential test questions based on the points you have in your “Notes” column. The “Summary” section is placed at the bottom of the page. It should contain exactly what it asks for: a summary of the lecture and the most important points.
Taking Notes Electronically
Not owning a notebook shouldn’t stop you from taking notes. Here are some useful notetaking apps:
OneNote
OneNote provides several features to assist you in taking well-structured notes. Since it acts as a digital notebook, you won’t have to worry about running out of pages or flipping through an entire book to find a certain topic. You can simply tag them as ‘Important’!
With OneNote’s hierarchical structure you can organize your notes into levels, semesters, and courses You can structure your notes as you normally would when using paper and be content in knowing that everything can be undone so your page can be neat. OneNote also provides password protection for your notes.
Notion
Notion offers several templates to help you create your own workspace including the Cornell method mentioned earlier. Notion also allows you to create Toggles, features which enable you to assign questions to your notes similarly to a flashcard and colour code them based on how difficult it was for you to answer the questions.
Pen vs Keyboard: Which is Better?
Did you know that in a 2014 study, students who wrote their notes were able to recall more information when compared to those who typed their notes?
Regardless of this fact I promise you: neither is necessarily better. If you type your notes you can choose to type less and spend more time actively listening to your lecturer so you can process more information. Or if you want to put your RSVP pen to use, do it! Try to stick to one medium (pen or keyboard) but don’t be afraid to mix and match methods until something fits. Recognize that different courses may require different methods and use whatever works for you. Just take your notes!