Note-taking techniques
In order to better assimilate information, it is important to take notes correctly: a good outline will help you quickly remember the essence of the lesson and the main theses.We invite you to learn more about the recording methods.
What do you need to know about note-taking?
One of the popular note-taking methods is the usual recording of information behind the lecturer.The technique consists in narration, the recording includes paragraphs and subparagraphs, abbreviations.Colored ink is used as desired.However, this method is not effective, since it does not focus on the essence of what was heard, and there is no visualization.
According to psychologist T. Buzan, this approach is of little use:
Key words and concepts are lost in the text;
Information is difficult to remember.In a continuous text, it is difficult to navigate and highlight the most important
There is unnecessary information in the synopsis, and you will waste time after reading it;
Associations with keywords, theses do not appear.
An alternative to this method is the techniques described below.Adapt each of them for yourself or combine with each other.
Note taking techniques
Mind maps. The method that Buzan suggests.We begin to lead the abstract from the middle of the sheet, where we designate the main topic.From this key concept there are branches in different directions, and ideas and words on the topic are attached to each branch.Colored pens come in handy for this technique.It is best to take notes in an A4 notebook or on a tablet so that you can quickly draw.
Cornell's method. Draw two horizontal lines on the sheet: below and above, which will act as headers and footers.At the top you can write the date and title, and at the bottom you can leave a few sentences, the main ideas - the summary of the synopsis.In the middle of the sheet, draw a vertical line and make two columns: leftshould already be right.On the right, we write down the lecture, the necessary material as we usually do.After the lesson, we reread the right column and write out the main theses, names, dates, questions on the left.This method is good because you need to return to the material covered, re-read, highlight the most important thing, finalize the outline.It is better to use A4 notebooks.In the left column, use the colored pens.If desired, you can make a mind map.
Flow method. Suitable only if you are already familiar with the material or you can additionally record the lecture on a dictaphone, get a presentation.This technique assumes that you write down your ideas as you listen to the lecture.It is especially useful if you understand in advance how you can apply knowledge in practice.For example, when you go to a training that will help you develop your business.
Where to keep notes?
Entries may be made electronically or by hand.Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.If you plan to take notes on a laptop or tablet:
You will have access to the text from any gadget if you store documents in the cloud storage;
You can quickly correct mistakes and search for words in the text;
Abstracts on different subjects are kept in one place;
At the same time, there is a great risk of distraction during the lesson and it is difficult to make a mind map.
When choosing a handwritten abstract, there are also pros and cons:
You canquickly make any notes and comments, use different techniques for taking notes;
You will be less distracted by third-party programs and notifications;
When preparing for exams, the eyes get tired less: it is more convenient to read from a sheet of paper than from a screen;
But you will have to carry different notebooks with you, you will notall items in one place.
Regardless of which method you use, the main thing is its learning benefits.Try different techniques and choose the best one for you.