NOTE TAKING

Note-taking is the practice of recording information, ideas, and insights from

various sources, such as lectures, readings, discussions, or presentations, in a
concise and organised manner. It involves actively processing and summarizing
information to create a written record that can be referred to later for studying,
reference, or review. Effective note-taking is a crucial skill for students and
professionals alike, aiding in comprehension, retention, and the synthesis of
knowledge. As a professor of English literature, you understand the significance
of note-taking in facilitating learning and critical thinking among your students.

Key aspects of Effective note-taking include:

1. Listening and Absorbing Information:

At the heart of effective note-taking lies the skill of active listening and
absorption. Whether in a classroom setting, during a seminar, or while reading,
note-takers focus on identifying the core concepts, significant details, and
illustrative examples that contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the
material. This process involves attentive engagement and the ability to
distinguish between essential and supplementary information.

2. Selecting and Summarising:

The art of note-taking lies in the ability to discern the salient points within a
body of information and encapsulate them succinctly. Skilled note-takers utilize
their analytical thinking to condense complex ideas into concise statements that
encapsulate the essence of the content. This requires not only an understanding
of the subject matter but also a proficiency in paraphrasing and distilling
concepts to their core meaning.

3. Organising Information:

Effective note-taking transcends mere transcription; it involves structuring

information in a coherent manner. Note-takers arrange their notes in a logical
sequence, often employing headings, bullet points, and subpoints to delineate
the hierarchy of ideas. This visual organization not only facilitates the rapid
retrieval of information but also aids in comprehending the relationships
between different concepts.

4. Personalisation and Abbreviations:

Note-taking is a personalised process that allows individuals to adapt strategies to

their preferences and pace. Abbreviations, symbols, and shorthand are common tools
employed by note-takers to streamline the recording process. These personalized
symbols condense lengthy terms, phrases, or concepts into concise forms that expedite
the note-taking process without compromising the accuracy of the information.

5. Actively Engaging with Content:

Beyond mere transcription, effective note-taking involves active engagement with the
material. Note-takers immerse themselves in the content by paraphrasing,
summarising, and posing questions. This level of interaction enhances
comprehension, critical thinking, and the assimilation of information, ultimately
fostering a deeper grasp of the subject matter.

6. Highlighting Key Concepts:

Highlighting is a visual strategy that emphasizes critical information within notes. By

selecting specific phrases, terms, or examples, note-takers draw attention to the core
ideas that encapsulate the essence of a topic. This practice not only aids in rapid review
but also serves as a mnemonic aid for recalling pivotal concepts.

7. Visual Aids and Diagrams:

Visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and sketches, elevate note-taking by rendering
complex ideas in a visual format. These aids offer an alternative approach to
representing relationships, hierarchies, and processes, enhancing the clarity of
information and facilitating a holistic understanding.

8. Recording Sources and Citations:

Ethical note-taking encompasses proper source attribution. Note-takers document the

origin of information, whether it’s from a lecture, textbook, or online source. By
including citations, note-takers maintain academic integrity, prevent plagiarism, and
ensure they can revisit and verify the accuracy of their notes.

9. Review and Revisiting:

Note-taking is not a standalone practice but an integral part of the learning journey.
Revisiting and reviewing notes at regular intervals reinforces memory retention,
clarifies areas of uncertainty, and supports exam preparation. This iterative process
contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the material.

10. Digital and Analogue Tools:

Note-taking methods span the continuum from digital to analogue. Digital tools such
as laptops, tablets, or dedicated note-taking apps offer flexibility and organization,
while analogue methods like pen and paper allow for free expression. The choice of
tools depends on personal preferences and the specific demands of the learning
context.

Key Elements while you are taking Notes:

When taking notes, there are several key elements to keep in mind in order to create
organized, effective, and useful records of information. As a professor of English
literature, your attention to detail and critical analysis skills will help you guide your
students in mastering the art of note-taking. Here are the essential elements to
consider:

1. Focus on Main Ideas:

Prioritise capturing the main ideas, central concepts, and key arguments
presented. Distil complex information into concise summaries that convey the
essence of the content.

2. Listen Actively:

Engage actively with the speaker or material. Listen attentively, read carefully,
and think critically about the information being presented. This active
involvement enhances the quality of your notes.

3. Organise Using Headings and Subheadings:

Employ a hierarchical structure by using headings and subheadings to

categorize different topics or themes. This visual organization aids in locating
specific information later.

4. Use Bullet Points and Lists:

Utilize bullet points and numbered lists to break down information into
digestible chunks. This format enhances readability and simplifies complex
ideas.

5. Paraphrase and Summarise:

Avoid copying verbatim and instead paraphrase information in your own

words. Summarize lengthy passages to capture the essence of the content
without excessive detail.

6. Abbreviate and Use Symbols:

 Develop a system of abbreviations and symbols to expedite note-taking. Create
shorthand for common terms or phrases to save time while maintaining
accuracy.

7. Highlight Key Details:

Use highlighting or underlining to emphasize crucial points, terms, or

examples. This visual distinction helps essential information stand out for later
review.

8. Capture Visual Aids:

If visuals such as diagrams, charts, or images are presented, include

descriptions or sketch a simplified version in your notes. Visual aids often
convey complex concepts succinctly.

9. Make Personal Annotations:

Add your insights, questions, or reactions alongside your notes. This personal
touch not only engages you with the material but also adds context to your
understanding.

10. Include Source References:

Attribute information to its source, whether it’s a lecture, textbook, or external

reading. Properly documenting sources ensures accuracy and supports future
referencing.

11. Maintain Neatness and Legibility:

Ensure that your notes are clear, legible, and well-organized. Neat notes are
easier to review, comprehend, and use effectively.

12. Review and Edit:

Take a moment after your note-taking session to review and edit your notes.
Clarify any unclear points, correct errors, and ensure that your notes accurately
represent the content.

13. Stay Engaged and Alert:

Maintain your focus and stay engaged throughout the note-taking process.
 Active participation enhances comprehension and ensures that you capture
relevant information.

14. Adapt to Learning Styles:

Tailor your note-taking approach to your learning style. Some individuals may
prefer visual aids, while others may benefit from more text-based notes.

15. Regularly Review and Revise:

Periodically review and revise your notes to reinforce your understanding and
keep the information fresh in your memory.

By integrating these key elements into your note-taking practice, you’ll create a
comprehensive and organised record of information that serves as a valuable resource
for studying, reviewing, and deepening your understanding of the subject matter.
 Common Note-taking Methods

The Cornell Method

The Outlining Method

The Mapping Method

The Charting Method

The Sentence Method

The Cornell Method

The Cornell method provides a systematic format for condensing and organizing
notes without laborious recopying. After writing the notes in the main space, use
the left-hand space to label each idea and detail with a key word or "cue."

Method: Rule your paper with a 2 _ inch margin on the left leaving a six-inch area
on the right in which to make notes. During class, take down information in the
six-inch area. When the instructor moves to a new point, skip a few lines. After
class, complete phrases and sentences as much as possible. For every significant
bit of information, write a cue in the left margin. To review, cover your notes with
a card, leaving the cues exposed. Say the cue out loud, then say as much as you can
of the material underneath the card. When you have said as much as you can, move
the card and see if what you said matches what is written. If you can say it, you
know it.

Advantages: Organized and systematic for recording and reviewing notes. Easy
format for pulling out major concept and ideas. Simple and efficient. Saves time
and effort. "Do-it-right-in-the-first-place system."

Disadvantages: None

When to Use: In any lecture situation.

The Outlining Method
Dash or indented outlining is usually best except for some science classes such as
physics or math.

The information which is most general begins at the left with each more specific
group of facts indented with spaces to the right.

The relationships between the different parts are carried out through indenting.

No numbers, letters, or Roman numerals are needed.

Method: Listening and then write in points in an organized pattern based on space
indention. Place major points farthest to the left. Indent each more specific point to
the right. Levels of importance will be indicated by distance away from the major
point. Indention can be as simple as or as complex as labeling the indentions with
Roman numerals or decimals. Markings are not necessary as space relationships
will indicate the major/minor points.

Advantages: Well-organized system if done right. Outlining records content as

well as relationships. It also reduces editing and is easy to review by turning main
points into questions.

Disadvantages: Requires more thought in class for accurate organization. This

system may not show relationships by sequence when needed. It doesn’t lend to
diversity of a review attach for maximum learning and question application. This
system cannot be used if the lecture is too fast.
When to Use: The outline format can be used if the lecture is presented in outline
organization. This may be either deductive (regular outline) or inductive (reverse
outline where minor points start building to a major point). Use this format when
there is enough time in the lecture to think about and make organization decisions
when they are needed. This format can be most effective when your note-taking
skills are super and sharp and you can handle the outlining regardless of the note-
taking situation.

The Cornell Method

The Cornell note taking method helps organize class notes into
easily digestible summaries. This method is effective because the
main points, details, study cues, and summary are all written in one
place.
Advantages:
• Notes are neatly organized, summarized, and easy to review

• Allows you to pull out major ideas and concepts

What Does it look like?

The paper is divided into 3 sections: a 2.5” margin to the left, a 2”
summary section on the bottom, and a main 6” in-class note
section.
Use the main notes section to take notes during class.
Use the cues section to review your notes. After class, write down
things you’ll need to remember and a prompt for each. You can also
use this section for vocabulary words and study questions.
In the summary segment at the bottom, write a summary of your
notes. This is where you will highlight the main points.
The Mapping Method

The Mapping note taking method is a more visual way to organize

your class notes. This technique is useful when learning about
relationships between topics.

Advantages:

• Useful for visual learners who struggle with studying from

notes.

• Helps you remember and connect relationships between topics.

What Does it look like?
The page is organized by topic. The main topics branch out into
subtopics with detailed information about each.
HOW TO USE IT?

While in class, begin the map with the main topic.

Branching off the main topic, write a heading for each of the
subtopics.

Write any important notes underneath each subtopic.

Continue the pattern.

The Outlining Method

The Outlining note taking method uses headings and bullet points
to organize topics. This method is most useful when learning about
topics that include a lot of detail.
Advantages:

Allows notes to be neatly organized.

It is easy to see the relationship between topics and subtopics.
It is easy to turn points into study questions.
What Does it look like?
Each section starts with a heading of the main topic. Each subtopic
and supporting fact is written underneath the proper heading.
HOW TO USE IT?

• During a lesson, begin your notes with a single bullet point and
write the main topic.

• Place the first subtopic below and indented slightly to the right.

• List any details below your heading and slightly to the right.

The Charting Method

Charting note taking method uses columns to organize information.

This method is useful for lessons that cover a lot of facts or
relationships between topics.
Advantages:
Facts are organized and easy to review.
Highlights key pieces of information for each topic.
What Does it look like?
The page is divided into columns labeled by category. The details
of each category are filled out in the rows below.
HOW TO USE IT?

• When information about a category is mentioned, jot it down

underneath the proper column.

• When the next topic begins move down one row and begin
again.

The Sentence Method

The Sentence note taking method is simply writing down each

topic as a jot note sentence. This method works well for fast paced
lessons where a lot of information is being covered.
Advantages:
Jotting main points helps you determine which information is
important and which is not.
 • You are able to cover a lot of details and information quickly.

• Notes are simplified for study and review.

What Does it look like?
Each line on the page is a new and separate topic. To organize your
notes even more, you can use headings for each main topic.
How To Use It?

• Write down important information the teacher has emphasized.

This can be in sentence form or point form.

• Start a new sentence or point for each new detail.

• Use headings to organize points by main topics.

The Mapping Method
Mapping is a method that uses comprehension/concentration skills and evolves in a
note-taking form which relates each fact or idea to every other fact or idea. Mapping
is a graphic representation of the content of a lecture. It is a method that maximizes
active participation, affords immediate knowledge as to its understanding, and
emphasizes critical thinking.
Advantages: This format helps you to visually track your lecture regardless of
conditions. Little thinking is needed and relationships can easily be seen. It is also
easy to edit your notes by adding numbers, marks, and color coding. Review will
call for you to restructure thought processes which will force you to check
understanding. Review by covering lines for memory drill and relationships. Main
points can be written on flash or note cards and pieced together into a table or
larger structure at a later date.

Disadvantages: You may not hear changes in content from major points to facts.

When to Use: Use when the lecture content is heavy and well-organized. May also
be used effectively when you have a guest lecturer and have no idea how the
lecture is going to be presented.

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The Charting Method

If the lecture format is distinct (such as chronological), you may set up your paper
by drawing columns and labelling appropriate headings in a table.

Method: Determine the categories to be covered in lecture. Set up your paper in

advance by columns headed by these categories. As you listen to the lecture, record
information (words, phrases, main ideas, etc.) into the appropriate category.
Advantages: Helps you track conversation and dialogues where you would
normally be confused and lose out on relevant content. Reduces amount of writing
necessary. Provides easy review mechanism for both memorization of facts and
study of comparisons and relationships.

Disadvantages: Few disadvantages except learning how to use the system and
locating the appropriate categories. You must be able to understand what’s
happening in the lecture.

When to Use: Test will focus on both facts and relationships. Contents is heavy and
presented fast. You want to reduce the amount of time you spend editing and
reviewing at test time. You want to get an overview of the whole course on one big
paper sequence.

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The Sentence Method

Method: Write every new thought, fact or topic on a separate line, numbering as you
progress.

Advantages: Slightly more organized than the paragraph. Gets more or all of the
information. Thinking to tract content is still limited.
Disadvantages: Can’t determine major/minor points from the numbered sequence. Difficult
to edit without having to rewrite by clustering points which are related. Difficult to review
unless editing cleans up relationship.

When to Use: Use when the lecture is somewhat organized, but heavy with content which
comes fast. You can hear the different points, but you don’t know how they fit together. The
instructor tends to present in point fashion, but not in grouping such as “three related points.”

Example 1: A revolution is any occurrence that affects other aspects of life, such as
economic life, social life, and so forth. Therefore revolutions cause change. (see page 29 to
30 in your text about this.)

Sample Notes: Revolution – occurrence that affects other aspects of life: e.g., econ., socl.
Etc. C.f. text, pp. 29-30

Example 2: At first, Freud tried conventional, physical methods of treatment such as giving
baths, massages, rest cures, and similar aids. But when these failed he tried techniques of
hypnosis that he had seen used by Jean-Martin Charcot. Finally, he borrowed an idea from
Jean Breuer and used direct verbal communication to get an unhypnotized patient to reveal
unconscious thoughts.
 Note-taking methods

Method Description When to Use

This method is what most students

use as a fallback if they haven’t
learned other methods. This method
A sequential listing of ideas as they are presented.
typically requires a lot of writing, and
Lists Lists may be short phrases or complete paragraphs
you may find that you are not keeping
describing ideas in more detail.
up with the professor. It is not easy for
students to prioritize ideas in this
method.

The outline method places most important ideas

along the left margin, which are numbered with
A good method to use when material
roman numerals. Supporting ideas to these main
presented by the instructor is well
Outlines concepts are indented and are noted with capital
organized. Easy to use when taking
letters. Under each of these ideas, further detail can
notes on your computer.
be added, designated with an Arabic number, a
lowercase letter, and so forth.

When designing a concept map, place a central idea Great method to show relationships
Concept in the centre of the page and then add lines and new among ideas. Also good if the
Maps circles in the page for new ideas. Use arrows and instructor tends to hop from one idea
lines to connect the various ideas. to another and back.

The Cornell method uses a two-column approach.

The left column takes up no more than a third of the
page and is often referred to as the “cue” or “recall”
The Cornell method can include any
column. The right column (about two-thirds of the
of the methods above and provides a
page) is used for taking notes using any of the
useful format for calling out key
Cornell methods described above or a combination of them.
concepts, prioritizing ideas, and
Method After class or completing the reading, review your
organizing review work. Most
notes and write the key ideas and concepts or
universities recommend using some
questions in the left column. You may also include a
form of the Cornell method.
summary box at the bottom of the page, in which to
write a summary of the class or reading in your own
words.