Technical English Communication (24 EN 102) : Quick Notes: Notes On Note-Making
Technical English Communication (24 EN 102) : Quick Notes: Notes On Note-Making
Baiju
Krishnan
Q TYPES OF NOTE-MAKING
1. Linear Notes
Information is organized in a sequential format using headings, subheadings, and bullet
points.
✅ Best for: Logical/chronological information
📝 Example:
Main Topic
1. Sub-topic 1
- Point A
- Point B
2. Sub-topic 2
- Point C
- Point D
2. Mind Maps / Spider Diagrams
Visual representation of ideas branching out from a central idea.
✅ Best for: Brainstorming, creative subjects
📝 Example: (Imagine a central circle labelled "Environment" with branches like "Pollution",
"Conservation", "Climate Change")
3. Flowchart Notes
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
5. Tree Diagram
Information is shown as a branching structure to represent hierarchy or classification.
✅ Best for: Biological classification, family trees, etc.
b. Encourages teamwork
c. Boosts confidence
4. Types of Exercise
a. Aerobic: running, swimming
b. Strength: weightlifting
c. Flexibility: yoga
d. Balance: tai chi
Abbreviations
Ex. = Exercise
Wt. = Weight
Imp. = Important
🎯 Purpose:
To present a brief version of a longer text.
To highlight only key points.
Useful for revision or report writing.
🛠 Steps to Summarise:
1. Read the full text carefully.
2. Underline or note down key ideas.
3. Eliminate unnecessary examples or repetitions.
4. Use your own words to rewrite.
5. Check for clarity and accuracy.
Sample – Original Passage:
"Exercise is important for everyone, regardless of age. It helps improve cardiovascular health,
increases muscle strength, supports weight control, and boosts the immune system. Mentally,
it helps reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance concentration."
✂ Summary:
Exercise benefits all age groups by improving physical and mental health, including heart function,
weight control, stress reduction, and focus.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Summarizing information effectively is essential for both academic success and professional
efficiency. It helps you identify and retain the core ideas without being overwhelmed by
excessive details. When preparing for exams, a good summary enables quick revision, clearer
understanding, and better recall under pressure. It also allows you to grasp the structure and
logic of complex concepts, making learning more meaningful.
In report writing, effective summarization ensures that your communication is clear, concise,
and focused. It demonstrates your ability to filter out unnecessary information and highlight
what truly matters, which is a valued skill in academic, research, and corporate environments.
📝 2. PARAPHRASING
✅ Definition:
Paraphrasing means rewriting someone else’s ideas in your own words, without changing
the original meaning.
🎯 Purpose:
To avoid plagiarism
To show understanding of a text
Useful in academic writing, research, and presentations
📌 Features of Good Paraphrasing:
Expresses the same meaning in a new form
Uses different sentence structures and vocabulary
Maintains the original idea
Includes proper citation if used in research
🛠 Steps to Paraphrase:
1. Read and understand the original passage.
2. Note down key ideas.
3. Change sentence structure and use synonyms.
4. Compare with original to ensure originality and accuracy.
5. Cite the source (if applicable).
Sample – Original Sentence:
"Climate change is causing rising sea levels and extreme weather patterns around the
world."
✍ Paraphrased Version:
Due to climate change, sea levels are increasing and weather events are becoming more
intense globally.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
📘 NOTES ON PARAGRAPHS
📝 What is a Paragraph?
A paragraph is a group of related sentences that develop a single idea. It begins with a topic
sentence, followed by supporting sentences, and ends with a concluding sentence. A good
paragraph maintains unity, coherence, and clarity.
🎯 Significance of Paragraphs:
Helps organize writing logically
Makes content easier to read and understand
Each paragraph develops one main idea
Aids in effective communication of thoughts
Maintains a smooth flow of ideas in essays and articles
The topic sentence is the main idea or central point of a paragraph. It tells the reader what
the paragraph is about and sets the direction for the rest of the sentences. Usually, it is the
first sentence, but it can appear anywhere in the paragraph depending on the style.
Gives clarity: It helps readers understand the subject of the paragraph instantly.
Maintains focus: Keeps the writer focused on a single idea.
Guides the reader: Acts as a roadmap for the rest of the paragraph.
Improves coherence: Connects the paragraph logically to the overall text or essay.
Supporting sentences develop and explain the topic sentence. They provide facts,
examples, reasons, and details that help the reader understand or believe the main idea.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Add depth: They expand the idea introduced by the topic sentence.
Prove a point: Help to justify or support the claim made in the topic sentence.
Enhance clarity: Make abstract ideas more concrete with examples or explanations.
Improve interest: Keep the paragraph engaging and informative.
✅ Example Paragraph:
📌 Summary:
A topic sentence introduces the main idea, while supporting sentences explain, develop, and
reinforce that idea. Together, they create a coherent, focused, and informative paragraph,
which is essential in academic and professional writing.
TYPES OF PARAGRAPHS
1⃣ Narrative Paragraph
✅ Purpose: To tell a story or narrate an event in chronological order.
Example:
Last summer, we went to Kerala for a family vacation. We visited the backwaters, watched
traditional Kathakali performances, and enjoyed delicious local food. One of the highlights
was the boat ride through the peaceful canals surrounded by palm trees.
2⃣ Descriptive Paragraph
✅ Purpose: To describe a person, place, object, or feeling using sensory details.
Example:
The beach at sunrise was breathtaking. The sky was painted in shades of pink and orange, and
the sound of waves gently lapping at the shore created a soothing melody. The cool breeze
carried the scent of salt and freshness, making the moment truly peaceful.
3⃣ Expository Paragraph
✅ Purpose: To explain a concept, process, or idea with facts and logic.
Example:
Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants make their own food. It involves the
absorption of sunlight by chlorophyll, which helps convert carbon dioxide and water into
glucose and oxygen. This process is essential for the survival of plants and the production of
oxygen for humans and animals.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
4⃣ Persuasive Paragraph
✅ Purpose: To convince the reader to accept a particular point of view or take action.
Example:
Students should be encouraged to wear school uniforms. Uniforms promote equality by
reducing peer pressure related to clothing. They also save time and money and create a sense
of discipline. Therefore, implementing uniforms can lead to a more focused and respectful
learning environment.
🗂 Summary Table
Type Purpose Key Feature
Narrative Tells a story Events in sequence
Descriptive Creates a picture Sensory details
Expository Explains or informs Facts, examples, logical order
Arguments, reasoning, emotional
Persuasive Convinces the reader appeal
📘 COHESIVE DEVICES
📝 Definition:
Cohesive devices (also known as linking words or connectives) are words or phrases used
to connect ideas in a text. They help maintain flow, unity, and clarity in writing or speech.
They act like glue, holding together different parts of a sentence, paragraph, or entire
composition to make it more coherent and understandable.
🎯 Significance of Cohesive Devices:
Enhances flow and logical sequence in writing
🗣 Makes communication clear and structured
Helps the reader follow ideas easily
Makes writing more professional and academic
Promotes unity and cohesion between sentences and paragraphs
Types & Examples of Cohesive Devices:
Type Function Examples
Addition Add information and, also, moreover, furthermore, in addition
but, however, although, whereas, on the other
Contrast Show difference
hand
Cause and Effect Show reason/result because, therefore, so, hence, as a result
Time/Sequence Show order/time then, next, afterwards, finally, meanwhile
Comparison Show similarity similarly, likewise, in the same way
Highlight
Emphasis importance indeed, in fact, especially, above all
Clarification Make clearer in other words, that is, namely
Illustration/Example Give example for example, for instance, such as
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Examples in Sentences:
1. Addition:
She loves painting, and she also enjoys sculpting.
2. Contrast:
He is very talented; however, he lacks discipline.
3. Cause and Effect:
It rained heavily; therefore, the match was cancelled.
4. Time/Sequence:
First, we collected the materials. Then, we started the experiment.
5. Example:
Many fruits are rich in vitamins, such as oranges and bananas.
6. Conclusion:
To sum up, regular reading enhances vocabulary and comprehension.
Linkers (also known as connectors, transition words, or conjunctive devices) are words or
phrases used to connect ideas, sentences, and paragraphs smoothly and logically. They
help in organizing your writing or speech by showing relationships between ideas such as
cause-effect, contrast, sequence, or addition.
✍ Examples in Sentences:
📩 1. ENQUIRY LETTER
✅ Purpose:
To ask for information about a product, service, course, or job.
Sample Enquiry Letter:
Sender’s Address
12-3, Gandhi Nagar, Hyderabad – 500089
Date: 14 June 2025
To
The Course Coordinator,
Oxford Language Institute,
Banjara Hills, Hyderabad – 500034
Dear Sir/Madam,
Subject: Enquiry about English Communication Course
I am interested in joining your English Communication course. I would like to know the
duration, fee structure, class timings, and the registration process. Kindly send me the
required details at the earliest.
Thank you. Yours
sincerely, Baiju
Krishnan
⚠ 2. COMPLAINT LETTER
✅ Purpose:
To express dissatisfaction and request corrective action regarding faulty products/services.
Sample Complaint Letter:
Sender’s Address
Flat No. 202, Lotus Towers, Kukatpally,
Hyderabad – 500072 Date: 14 June
2025
To
The Manager, Reliance
Electronics,
Ameerpet, Hyderabad – 500016
Sir/Madam,
Subject: Complaint about Defective Washing Machine
I am writing to inform you that the washing machine (Model: LG X850, Invoice No. 5678) I
purchased on 5 June 2025 is not functioning properly. It stops midway during the wash cycle.
I request you to send a technician to inspect and replace the product if necessary. I have
attached a copy of the invoice for your reference.
Yours faithfully,
Baiju Krishnan
Enclosure: Invoice Copy
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Ravi Shankar
123, Green City Road
Guntur – 522002
📞 +91-9876543210
[email protected]
📅 Date: 14 June 2025
To
The HR Manager
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Respected Sir/Madam,
During my academic journey, I have gained hands-on experience in C, Java, Python, and
front-end technologies through various academic projects and an internship at Code Clause.
My recent project on a Student Record Management System reflects my ability to develop
real-world solutions using Python and MySQL. I have also actively participated in coding
competitions and was a finalist in the Smart India Hackathon 2024.
I am a quick learner, an effective team player, and deeply passionate about technology and
problem-solving. I am confident that I can make a meaningful contribution to your team if
given the opportunity.
Please find attached my resume for your kind perusal. I would be grateful for the opportunity
to attend an interview at your convenience.
Yours sincerely,
Ravi Shankar
Enclosure: Resume
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
📘 Resume – Definition
A resume is a formal document that summarizes a candidate’s educational background,
skills, experience, and achievements relevant to a job position. It is typically 1–2 pages long
and helps employers assess if the applicant is a suitable fit for a role.
🎯 Career Objective
Motivated and detail-oriented B. Tech (Computer Science) student seeking the position of
Programming Analyst, where I can utilize my coding skills and analytical thinking to
contribute to the organization’s growth and enhance my professional abilities.
🎓 Educational Qualifications
🖥 Technical Skills
💼 Projects
Internship
📜 Certifications
🏆 Achievements
💬 Personal Details
🖊 Declaration
I hereby declare that the above information is true to the best of my knowledge.
Ravi Shankar
Date: 14 June 2025
I am interested in your English Communication Course and would like to know the duration, fee
structure, and eligibility criteria. I would be grateful if you could share the details at your
earliest convenience.
I am writing to inform you that the product I received is defective and not functioning as expected. I
request you to kindly look into the matter and arrange for a replacement at the earliest.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
🎯 Summary Table:
🛠 Process Description
✅ Definition:
Photosynthesis is a natural process through which green plants convert sunlight into chemical
energy. As shown in the diagram, the plant absorbs sunlight through its leaves, which contain
a green pigment called chlorophyll. Simultaneously, the roots take in water from the soil,
while the leaves absorb carbon dioxide from the air through tiny openings called stomata.
These components—sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide—are essential inputs for
photosynthesis. Inside the leaf cells, the energy from sunlight triggers a chemical reaction that
transforms carbon dioxide and water into glucose (sugar), which the plant uses for
nourishment and growth. In this process, oxygen is released as a by-product into the
atmosphere, which is vital for human and animal life. This entire cycle plays a crucial role in
maintaining ecological balance and is the primary method by which energy enters the food
chain. Thus, photosynthesis is both a life-sustaining and energy-producing process.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
The process of gold extraction from ore involves several carefully sequenced steps to isolate
pure gold. It begins with crushing the gold-bearing ore taken from the ore stockpile, followed
by milling to reduce it to fine particles. The milled ore then undergoes leaching, where it is
treated with a cyanide solution for about 16–18 hours to dissolve the gold content. The
resulting liquid, known as pregnant leach liquor, contains the dissolved gold. This liquor is
separated from the remaining solids and passed through a vacuum deaeration process to
remove air, which is essential for the next step. Then, zinc powder is added to precipitate the
gold out of the solution. The gold-bearing solid is collected using a filter press. The solid
residue is then washed, and unwanted materials (tailings) are removed. The concentrated gold
precipitate is sent to a calcining unit where it is heated to remove impurities. Finally, the
purified material undergoes smelting, where it is melted and cast into gold bars known as dore.
Each step in the process ensures maximum gold recovery while minimizing waste, making it a
crucial method in the mining industry for obtaining usable gold from raw ore.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
One of the main benefits is clarity. A structured process uses sequence markers such as
first, next, then, and finally, which help users follow the flow of actions without skipping any
critical steps. This logical order reduces the chances of error and boosts confidence in task
completion.
Another crucial factor is usability. A structured process makes it easier to review or revisit
certain steps if something goes wrong. For example, in technical manuals, users rely heavily
on process descriptions to troubleshoot problems or install software correctly.
Moreover, such descriptions promote efficiency by eliminating ambiguity. When users know
exactly what to do and in what order, tasks are completed faster and with fewer mistakes.
🔹 Product Description
✅ Definition:
A product description is a factual, informative piece of writing that explains the features,
specifications, and uses of a product. It is often created by the manufacturer or seller to
help customers understand what the product is and what it offers.
📌 Purpose / Need:
📝 Example:
The Samsung Galaxy S24 features a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED display, 50MP triple rear camera,
8GB RAM, and 4000mAh battery. It supports 5G connectivity, has a sleek aluminum frame, and
comes with Android 14. Perfect for users who need powerful performance, seamless
multitasking, and high-quality photography.
🔹 Product Review
✅ Definition:
📌 Purpose / Need:
📝 Example:
Reading is the process of decoding symbols (like letters and words) to derive meaning. It is a key
receptive skill that helps individuals gain knowledge, understand content, and communicate
effectively. Reading involves comprehension, interpretation, and sometimes evaluation of the text.
📚 Types of Reading:
Type Purpose Example
Extensive Reading For pleasure and general understanding Reading a novel or short story
Critical Reading To evaluate and analyse a text deeply Reviewing an editorial or report
Sample Questions:
📌 Significance of Reading:
Builds vocabulary and language skills
Enhances concentration and critical thinking
Provides knowledge and cultural awareness
Supports academic success and lifelong learning
Reading quickly to get the To get the gist of a Glancing through a chapter
Skimming
main
idea or overall understanding text to know what it's about
Using titles, headings, and prior To prepare your mind Guessing what will happen in
Predicting
knowledge to guess content for reading & a story based on the title
engage
Understanding implied Understanding a character is
Inferring meanings not directly stated To read between sad, though it’s not stated
the lines
Intensive Reading carefully and in detail For academic Studying a textbook chapter
Reading for full comprehension or exam for a test
purposes
Tips to Remember:
Use skimming when you're short on time.
Use scanning when you're looking for a quick fact.
Predict before reading; infer during or after reading.
Apply intensive reading when studying; use extensive reading to build fluency and enjoy.
📘 Biography
✅ Definition:
📌 Features:
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, was an Indian aerospace
scientist and the 11th President of India. He played a pivotal role in India’s missile and nuclear
development programs, earning the nickname “Missile Man of India.” Coming from a humble
background, he rose through hard work and dedication. He also authored several inspirational
books like Wings of Fire. He passed away on 27 July 2015, but his legacy in science and education
continues to inspire millions.
📌 Features:
Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, born on 15 October 1931 in Rameswaram, was a renowned Indian scientist and
the 11th President of India. Widely respected for his pivotal role in developing India's missile
programs, he earned the title “Missile Man of India.” A recipient of the prestigious Bharat Ratna,
Dr. Kalam also inspired millions through his writings, including the famous books Wings of Fire and
Ignited Minds. Beyond his scientific and political achievements, he was deeply admired for his
humility, simplicity, and dedication to education and youth development. He passed away on 27
July 2015, but his legacy as a visionary leader and mentor to students continues to live on and
inspire generations.
Content
Life story with details Highlights of life and achievements
Language
Narrative Factual and brief
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Email writing is the process of composing and sending electronic messages using email platforms
like Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail, etc. It is a fast, convenient, and formal method of communication
used in personal, academic, and professional settings.
📝 Types of Emails:
Etiquette Explanation
Use a clear subject line Helps the reader understand the purpose
quickly Begin with a polite salutation Sets a respectful tone (e.g., Dear Sir/Madam)
Keep the message clear and concise Avoid long, confusing sentences
To:
CC/ BCC:
Dear Sir/Madam,
Regards,
Anjali Mehra
Email: [email protected]
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
✅ Definition:
A PowerPoint Presentation (PPT) is a visual and oral method of delivering information using a
series of digital slides created through Microsoft PowerPoint or similar software. Each slide
typically contains text, images, graphs, audio/video clips, and animations to support a spoken
explanation.
Slide 2: Introduction
Slide 3: Causes
Greenhouse gases
Deforestation
Pollution
Slide 4: Effects
1. Introduction Phrases
To summarize...
In conclusion...
Let’s recap what we’ve discussed...
I’d like to end by saying...
Thank you for your attention.
General Essay Questions that can be asked based on the following titles:
(The questions mentioned here are just samples; in the exam, you may get
different questions related to these topics)
Genetics
Social Media
New Age Entrepreneurs
Health and Nutrition
Essay Question 1:
Explain the structure of DNA and its role in the inheritance of genetic information.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
Answer:
DNA, or Deoxyribonucleic Acid, is the molecule of heredity that carries the genetic
instructions used in the growth, development, functioning, and reproduction of all known
living organisms. It is primarily located in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells.
The structure of DNA is famously known as the double helix, a model proposed by Watson
and Crick in 1953. This structure consists of two long strands of nucleotides twisted around
each other. Each nucleotide is made up of three components: a phosphate group, a
deoxyribose sugar, and a nitrogenous base. There are four types of nitrogenous bases:
Adenine (A), Thymine (T), Cytosine (C), and Guanine (G). The base pairing rule ensures
that A pairs with T and C pairs with G, held together by hydrogen bonds.
DNA plays a central role in inheritance because it contains genes, which are specific
sequences of nucleotides that code for proteins. These proteins determine the traits or
phenotypes of an organism. During cell division, DNA is replicated so that each new cell
receives an exact copy of the genetic material. This replication process is critical for the
transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next.
In conclusion, the structure of DNA not only provides stability and fidelity in storing genetic
information but also allows it to be precisely copied and transmitted, making it fundamental to
the process of genetic inheritance.
Essay Question 2:
Who are New-Age Entrepreneurs, and how are they redefining business in the 21st century?
Answer:
New-Age Entrepreneurs represent a new generation of business leaders who are innovative,
tech-savvy, and socially conscious. Unlike traditional entrepreneurs who often focused solely
on profit, new-age entrepreneurs aim to build ventures that combine economic success with
positive societal impact.
One of the defining traits of new-age entrepreneurs is their use of digital technologies. With
the rise of the internet, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and block chain, these
entrepreneurs leverage modern tools to disrupt conventional industries. For example,
companies like Byju’s, Zomato, and Paytm in India have revolutionized education, food
delivery, and digital payments respectively.
Another key feature is the start-up culture they create—lean, agile, and collaborative. They
value creativity, risk-taking, and continuous learning, often working in co-working spaces
and building global networks through social media and venture capital platforms.
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
In conclusion, new-age entrepreneurs are transforming the business landscape with a blend
of technology, innovation, and social vision. They not only create wealth but also contribute
to building a more equitable and sustainable world.
Essay Question 3:
Discuss the impact of social media on modern society. What are its benefits and potential
drawbacks?
Answer:
Social media has become an integral part of modern society, influencing the way people
communicate, interact, and consume information. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, and WhatsApp have revolutionized digital communication, making it faster and
more accessible than ever before.
One of the major benefits of social media is its ability to connect people globally. It allows
users to maintain relationships, form new ones, and even participate in virtual communities
that share common interests. For professionals, platforms like LinkedIn help with networking
and career development. Social media also plays a key role in raising awareness about
important social, political, and environmental issues.
Furthermore, social media has transformed the way information is shared. News and updates
spread in real-time, and users have become both consumers and creators of content. It has
given rise to digital activism, where movements such as #MeToo and #BlackLivesMatter
gained momentum.
However, there are several drawbacks to social media. One concern is the spread of
misinformation and fake news, which can mislead the public and create panic. Another issue
is cyberbullying, which affects the mental health of individuals, especially teenagers. Privacy
concerns and data breaches are also critical issues; as personal information can be misused.
Additionally, addiction to social media has been linked to reduced productivity, sleep
disturbances, and lower self-esteem due to the constant comparison with others' online lives.
In conclusion, while social media offers numerous advantages, such as global connectivity
and instant communication, it also brings challenges that must be addressed responsibly. The
key lies in balanced usage, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring ethical behaviour online.
Essay Question 4:
Discuss the importance of balanced nutrition in maintaining overall health and preventing
lifestyle diseases.
Answer:
Health and nutrition are closely interlinked, as the food we consume plays a critical role in
determining our physical well-being, mental alertness, and immunity. A balanced diet is
Notes Prepared by Dr. Baiju
Krishnan
essential for maintaining good health, promoting growth and development, and preventing
lifestyle-related diseases.
A balanced diet includes all the essential macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats
—along with micronutrients like vitamins and minerals in appropriate proportions.
Carbohydrates provide energy, proteins are crucial for tissue repair and muscle building, and
fats aid in hormone production and vitamin absorption. Vitamins such as Vitamin A, C, D,
E, and B-complex support various bodily functions, while minerals like calcium, iron, and
zinc are vital for bone strength, oxygen transport, and immune function.
Poor nutrition can lead to malnutrition, which includes both undernutrition and over
nutrition. While undernutrition can cause stunted growth, weakened immunity, and fatigue,
over nutrition, often due to excessive intake of calories, leads to obesity, diabetes,
hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
In modern society, lifestyle diseases have become increasingly prevalent due to sedentary
behaviour, unhealthy eating habits, and stress. These include Type 2 diabetes, coronary
artery disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. However, these conditions can often be
prevented or managed through a nutrient-rich diet, regular physical activity, hydration, and
adequate sleep.
***
Best Regards G🤞