Actively taking notes in class can help you understand the topic better. Below are some tips that can help you take good notes in class and revise them after class.
In class time
During class teachers use various strategies to indicate to students what is important. Being aware of these helps you identify the main ideas and take useful notes. When taking notes, it’s a good idea to pay attention to:
Introductions and conclusions
In the introduction, the lecturer usually outlines the important points, connects them with the previous and next lectures and puts the topic in context. The conclusion summarises the main points. Therefore, paying attention to the beginning and ending of lectures is very important.
For example: Today we’ll be talking about the effect of information overload on the short-term memory. There are three main points …
Voice emphasis
In lectures and tutorials, important ideas, words and phrases are often emphasised. A lecturer or teacher may do this by saying them more slowly, more loudly, or by pausing. Gestures and movement may also be used for emphasis.
Linking expressions
Listen for words and phrases that direct you to new and important ideas or show the relationships between the points being raised. Examples include:
Addition words – also, too, in addition, furthermore, another
Emphasis words – importantly, specifically, especially, obviously
Sequencing words – firstly, secondly, next, finally
Contrast words – however, but, despite, on the other hand, conversely
Concession words – although, even though, in the light of, given that
Illustration words – for example, to illustrate, that is
Reason and result words – consequently, because, therefore, leads to
Summary words – in conclusion, to sum up, in summary
Repetition and elaboration
Important points are repeated or illustrated with examples by your lecturer.
After class
Your independent study time after class is some of your most valuable time as a study; use it wisely. Revise notes within 24 hours of the class. Don’t just file them away!
Some different ways to revise notes after class:
Discuss ideas with a study group
Draw a mind map of the key ideas
Do some follow up reading about the key ideas
Think about how ideas relate to your assignments, exams or future career
