If you’re a student in primary or secondary school, you’ll understand how important taking great notes is to your overall performance. Whether you’re in a class or studying alone at home, using effective note-taking strategies can significantly improve your understanding. The following strategies provide a great starting point, whether you prefer pen and paper or digital tools.

Effective Note-Taking Strategies To Help You Every Time

Be Organised

You want your notebook to be like a well-organised treasure map that helps you get the necessary information you look for per time, on time! Use headings, bullet points, and numbered lists to keep things neat.

Thicken your pen strokes to differentiate segments like headings, key points, and examples, or, when you can, use different colours instead. It’ll make reviewing and revision a breeze later.

Use Shortcuts

Especially if you’re in a class where your teacher speaks a lot and fast, taking notes faster will be a useful skill for you. Use abbreviations and symbols for common words. For example, ‘because’ becomes ‘b/c’ or ‘bcos’, and ‘and’ becomes ‘&’—it’s like creating your own secret code! 

However, remember that these shortcuts only stay in your personal notebook. Don’t use this during exams or in formal settings, no matter how fast you want to write.

Listen Actively in Class

The best notes start with paying attention. Pay close attention to what your teacher says. When they repeat something or say, “This is important,” it is like a flashing neon sign—write it down fast!

Try to avoid side comments and other forms of distraction, especially when teaching is going on. Also, encourage your classmates to listen so that you all don’t miss out on what the teacher says.

Review and Summarise

Think of reviewing your notes like watching a recap of your favourite show. Summarise the main points after class; think of it like creating your own mini-episode. This way, you’ll remember the important stuff.

Mind Maps for Big Ideas

Big ideas are like the towns and cities of your notes. Use mind maps to connect them. Draw a circle for the main idea and branches for supporting details. That makes it easier to connect the dots and simplify a complex concept.

Practise, Practise, Practise

Just like every skill requires practice, the more you practise note-taking, the better you become. Regularly practising how to take notes equips you to better ace your studies.

Ask Questions

If a concept or topic is not clear, ask your teacher. This not only ensures that your notes are crystal clear and ready to use, but also that you grasp the meaning of what’s being taught.

Remember, these note-taking strategies are your secret weapons for success in class. Soon, you’ll be taking notes faster and smarter than ever before. Happy note-taking, super learners!

So go ahead and explore the uLesson app on the web or download it from Google Play. Don’t forget to take smart notes as you learn.