A notebook with a pen and a computer

Taking notes promotes active reading, which, in turn improves reading comprehension. When you concentrate on taking coherent notes, you increase your absorption and retention of the content.

Note-taking also helps you keep information organized according to the learning style that suits you best. For example, you may insert diagrams, graphic organizers, or charts into your notes. You may also use a structured hierarchy, such as outline format, to show how auxiliary ideas are tied to core concepts.

Quality notes, reviewed regularly, will help ensure that upcoming tests and quizzes are less stressful. You will be able to recall information easier instead of having to connect the dots or guess. In order to accomplish this, plan regular study times to give yourself time to prepare. Spread study times out instead of cramming at the last minute.

Note-Taking Methods

We know how important it is to take notes. But how do you take notes successfully?

The answer is more complicated than at first glance. Notes must match the student’s learning style if they are to be effective. There are myriad ways to style your notes, including several that have gained traction with educators. It is best to learn a little bit about the major note taking styles and integrate aspects of each that you like into your own personal style.

Read about some of the major note-taking styles (Courtesy Common Note-taking Methods from the University of Tennessee):

1. The Cornell Method

This method concentrates on maximizing page space for organization and retention. The note-taker divides the page up into two columns, with one column used to take general notes and the other column used to label each section of notes with keywords.

2. The Outlining Method

This method attempts to organize notes in terms of relational dependence. As your instructor delves into larger concepts, the notes become more and more indented to show a hierarchy of importance. Indentation can be designated with Roman numerals, letters, numbers, or other notation. This method focuses on indicating major and minor points, and how they are connected.

3. The Mapping Method

This method uses visual diagrams to help organize notes. Relationships between concepts can be shown with arrows, boxes, circles, or even color codes. Mapping allows you to see relationships between concepts at-a-glance, making categorization easy.

4. The Sentence Method

This method relies on the student knowing beforehand what the topic of the lecture is and what the major salient points are. The page can be divided into rows or columns, each labeled with a major concept. Then, as notes are taken, they are placed into the appropriate categories.

Note-Taking Software

There are several online note-taking tools available for you to use. Some are free, and others require payment. Investigate some of these options and see if any of them work for you by clicking on the links below.

Evernote

How to use Evernote to Organize Your Life

Microsoft OneNote

Google Keep

Simplenote

EndNote

EndNote is a software program that helps you search for, find, and organize your citations and references. All Michigan Tech faculty, staff, and students may install EndNote on their computers.

Check out MTU EndNote page for how to download, install, and use it.