Note Taking

Lectures & Lessons

There are various methods of note-taking, and it should be noted that there isn’t one right way. Everyone has there own way and style that others may or may not benefit from. In essence, choose a note-taking method that suites you best. Although there may not be a “right” way to take notes, there are a few commonalities.

You’ll notice that in the images provided below, the writings are usually contained within the red lines on either side of the lined paper. This is because, as a general rule of thumb, you should avoid writing outside of these lines for readability, neatness, and standardization. Another general rule is that all notes, ideally, should be taken by hand. Yes, you may not have enough time, but that’s why they’re notes. They are a future reference for things you may not know, and writing them down helps you retain the information better than if you were to type it.

Below I’ve provided note-taking methods, their function, and potential uses.

Outline Notes

Outline note-taking is the process of writing important topics or main ideas in chronological order as they’re presented from the top of the page to the bottom. Sequential subtopics, ideas, or terms are usually indented and written directly under their corresponding topic. It’s not often that outlines have illustrations, but they may be present to help visualize a concept or elaborate on an explanation.

Through this note-taking method, the final product should be an organized note page with structured information that is easy to locate and read, facilitating ease-of-use and review. These type of notes also present a hierarchy of information in which provides supporting details and explanations for related topics and ideas, ultimately allowing one to identify relationships between concepts.

Such a note-taking method can be used when covering material presented in a structured format, such as a slideshow, lecture, or textbook. It can be particularly useful to use such notes when reviewing for exams, as topics are already divided and subdivided into their respective areas.

Cornell Notes

The Cornell note style is a layout on a page that divides content into two primary sections: a column of ideas, terms, and questions; and a box of descriptions, answers, and explanations. At the bottom of the page, there is a wider box that summarizes the material covered and lists key points. The size for each column and box can be adjusted according to preference and necessity.

In the end, you should be left with a structured note page that captures the lesson taught as a whole. The Cornell Note style should ultimately help you study, as it can aid in your ability to retain information, help you identify connections, and define key terms or ideas. The clarity in which information is presented can also make it easier to see “big picture” or a more grand idea without the need to become seriously pensive.

The Cornell Note style should be used in similar areas where outline notes are used, such as in lectures, slideshows, or textbooks. However, it should also be utilized to record your own questions, comments, and thoughts as well as other resources regarding exam material.

Charting Notes

The charting note style is a layout on a page that divides content across grid like sections according to elements organized into rows and columns. Recorded notes won’t always be in chronological order.

Ultimately, the notes should be more condensed and easy to navigate. They should also be organized in a way that sorts all the material into a matrix where relevant, related information can be found close by. This note taking style is more of a visual aid that facilitates the identification of relationships in material and the comparison of different topics. Providing the visual guidance it does, this note style can also be useful for analyzing data, statistics, or facts through various perspectives in order to generate or better understanding different ideas.

Charting notes can be applied to situations in which you are covering previously taught content, like in reviews or tutorials, as it acts as a good reference one can easily understand and navigate at a glance. Such a note taking style is also useful in lectures or presentations, in which there is a clear structure of material and fast delivery of content.

Boxing Notes

Boxing is a note taking technique that involves the sorting of information into sections dedicated a specific idea or subtopic. Similarly to charting, boxing content won’t always result in narrative product in which notes are ordered in a chronological way.

Boxing notes should provide a page with an organized collection of content that facilitates ease of navigation, reading, and comprehension. The manner in which information is organized should also allow for a straightforward way to visualize connections between different ideas, thoughts, or concepts. Given the note taking style’s emphasis on categorization and classification, it’s likely that these notes would also be hierarchical, with countless subtopics falling under bigger, more generic topics.

Boxing notes are effective for organizing lecture notes, textbook summaries, or project ideas. They work well when topics are distinct but still connected under a larger theme. This style is ideal for learners who prefer visually structured information and is also useful for preparing study guides, where quick access to key details is needed.

Mapping Notes

Mapping notes use diagrams to organize information visually, starting with a central idea and branching into related subtopics. Lines or connectors illustrate relationships, making it easier to see how ideas build on each other. The style ranges from simple hierarchies to complex webs, as the structure of these notes can change based on preference and necesity.

The final result is a dynamic note page that visually represents the topic, providing a summary and understanding of how various elements connect. The style can aid in memory retention by helping one visualize a topic more easily and simplifying complex information into a visual format. It also encourages critical thinking, as one must know how ideas are related and where they fit in the larger picture. This note style offers flexibility, as there is more space for new branches as more information is gathered.

Mapping notes are ideal for brainstorming, studying, or analyzing interconnected topics, particularly in subjects where understanding relationships is key. They help condense and present information from lectures, textbooks, and other resources in an efficient manner.

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