Take Good Notes

A few weeks ago while taking a test, I got stuck on a question; but the answer was at the tip of my tongue. I had seen it somewhere. After searching my memory bank, I recalled seeing it in my notes while studying.

Students, take good notes. Stop letting your mind wander in class. Make it a priority to write everything your professors say. It can be difficult taking notes. Professors talk fast and some of the lectures are so boring that it’s hard to focus. But hey, find a way to pep up.

As for any class that’s interesting, it’s frustrating not taking down everything a professor says. Eliminate these frustrations by focusing on the main points. They are usually the first words professors say after pausing. The main points are also the statements that are repeated.

If you miss something, someone else likely didn’t. If you know others in the class, don’t hesitate to ask for their notes. They won’t think you’re a slacker for missing something. If they do, so what? If you know you tried, that’s all that matters. Also, secretly look over to the next person’s notes. Every one doesn’t take good notes. However, a good note-taker is likely sitting around you; so take advantage. It’s not cheating because it’s not a test. Speaking of a test, you know NOT to use this practice during one.

Don’t use the same notebook for multiple classes. This causes disorganization and unnecessary stress. If you forget a notebook for a particular class, jot down notes on a sheet of paper. When getting back to your room, immediately transfer them to the notebook. To continue on disorganization, don’t bunch notes together. Leave space to add anything that may be relevant to a topic.

Don’t try to write entire sentences. Use abbreviations and focus on key phrases. However, it’s important to fill in the blanks as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the less you’ll remember what the phrase means.

Don’t hesitate to ask professors questions. If they talk fast, ask them what they mean. Someone else likely has the same question. This gives you a chance to regroup. When another student asks a question, write your professor’s answer. Anything is subject to appear on a test.

After taking your notes, don’t brush them off. Take advantage by reviewing them, especially in preparation for a test. When reading the textbook, have your notebook open. You’ll better understand the material because you’ve already heard it and the proof is in the notes. It’s easy for students to think tests are composed primarily of textbook material. During college, I’ve discovered how much professors value lectures. I don’t understand how students can come to class and have a blank expression the whole time. Some don’t bother to take notes and/or pay attention. But that’s another topic for another day.