Effective Note Taking Methods
Note-taking is a powerful skill that can be used in all aspects of life. It’s not just something that is best used in school and in studying. It can also be a skill that will benefit your work and everyday life. Use this to remember chores and your to-dos. It’s also helpful in keeping track of your goals.
When note-taking, opt for our Poly Cover Spiral Fat Books (aka, our Little Big Book) and Frizz Erasable Gel Retractable Pens. These are perfect because you can easily fit them in your bag and jot down ideas before you forget. They come in various colors and can also be used in school, home, and work.
Here are some tips for making sure that you’re using effective techniques in note taking:
• Learn shorthand. Writing in shorthand on your spiral notebook isn’t just for secretaries. It can be a useful technique when you’re jotting down notes from a fast speaker. Typing down notes on the tablet will make it really difficult. With the shorthand, writing becomes quicker and smoother. It’s something that you need to learn and practice so it becomes natural as you go along.
• Speed up note taking by rephrasing and using abbreviations or mnemonics. Another strategy to learn when note taking is to shorten notes when possible. You can do this by rephrasing the points or using mnemonics or abbreviations. Simplify the language instead of writing down everything word-for-word. This makes your notes brief and easier to understand. Develop the use of abbreviations and visual note-taking when necessary. Draw arrows and opt for abbreviations when you can.
• Use a note-taking method that suits you. There are different note-taking methods that you can use and follow. There are basic methods and more advanced ones. You can opt for the simple Outline Method or the logical Cornell Method. There are other methods, like the strategic Boxing Method and the visual Mapping Method. Try and learn every method. Find one that matches your learning style and preference.
• Review and edit notes. Reviewing and editing notes is an important aspect of note-taking. This helps in increasing one’s capacity for learning. Try to edit words that don’t make sense and write out your abbreviations. This encourages you to redo your notes to check which parts are unclear. Doing so also helps in retaining the important points of your notes.
• Customize it as your own. It is important to try everything but stick to what works for you. Individuals are different. Find techniques and methods that work best for your learning style. You can opt to leave spaces in between or always start your notes on a new page. Whatever it is, make sure you develop and improve your system. Fine tune your note-taking always so you can increase the speed and accuracy of your note-taking.
At the end of the day, these note-taking techniques won’t be effective if you don’t have a notebook with you. Just having a notebook handy whenever and wherever will be your best bet towards a good note-taking habit. Make sure that you have a small spiral notebook at all times will keep you ready for organizing your thoughts, plans, and meetings.
