Taking notes and studying

Strategy #1 ABBREVIATIONS

Abbreviations allow you to write down more information with the use of fewer letters, ultimately saving you time and allowing you to focus on what is being said, as opposed to spending time on just writing. There is no one “right” way to make abbreviations. Do what makes sense to you and saves you time.

Common types of abbreviations are

acronyms (e.g., CBA = cost-benefit analysis),
first letters (e.g., P = psychology),
shortened words (e.g., reg = registration),
words with reduced vowels (e.g., explntn), and
symbols as abbreviations (e.g, -> = leads to).

For a review of common abbreviations, watch the video below.

Strategy #2 Active Note-Taking

Transcribing is writing down every word—don't do it!

Taking effective notes is a process of actively listening to what the lecturer says and taking down key information. Because it's impossible (and not always useful) to write down everything your instructor says, people use various strategies for taking notes and organizing them afterward. In this video, you will learn key tips about how to listen for instructor emphasis, put information in your own words, focus on key information, and stay engaged in the lecture.

Strategy #3 Note-Taking Models

Model 1: Outline

Outlines are a common way to take or rewrite notes. Using an outline is helpful because it gets you to think about how your information is organized. When you make an outline, you're showing a hierarchy. You're deciding what idea is the main idea, what are the details, and which details belong together. A traditional outline uses numbers and letters for the various levels. You can also use bullets if the information does not fit together in a strict hierarchal manner.

Model 2: Cornell Method

The Cornell method uses 5 steps in the note taking process to help you retain information. It uses recording notes, creating questions, recitation, reflection, and review to engage you in the learning process.

Step 1. Record

During the class lecture, record your notes on the left side of your paper. You will use the right side for Step 2.

Step 2. Question

Soon after class, read the notes and create questions in the right column based on the notes from the left column. Think critically and create as many questions as you can.

Step 3. Recite

Cover up the note-taking column with a sheet of paper. Look at the questions or cues and answer the questions. This may help to clarify meanings and relationships and to establish continuity in the content.

Step 4. Reflect

Reflect on the material by assessing what you could or could not answer. This should tell you what areas you need to study more and which areas you are strong in.

Step 5. Review

Re-read and re-watch class content for areas you are weak in. Also search for supplemental information based on Step 4. Engage in Step 2 at least ten minutes each week, after you revisit your class notes. This method allows you to retain a significant amount of information.

Model 3: Mind Map/ Graphic Organizer

A mind map is a way of visually outlining information by creating a diagram. By laying out ideas in space (and not just in a single straight list, as in an outline), you can show connections and relationships with greater detail. For this reason, mind maps are especially good for showing processes and important concepts.

Mind maps are also good for students who prefer to see things visually (see example below). The easiest way to create a mind map is simply to use a pen and a blank piece of paper, but there are also many web and mobile apps for making digital mind maps.

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