General Guidelines For Taking Notes

Taking notes from Textbooks or Assigned Readings

If you have highlighted the majority of your textbook or reading assignment, then you are not well prepared to take notes from it. That is typically too much information to digest or remember. Moreover, all of it will not be asked of you. Some general guidelines to help you take productive notes from your readings are (also check the other note-taking information in this site):

Finish reading before you take notes : first read a full paragraph or headed section.

Be selective : pick the essentials and write them concisely. To be selective, you must first read the materials critically. Then you can summarize each paragraph in one sentence. Don't try to memorize the entire paragraph or every fact, definition, or idea. Don't try to rewrite the textbook longhand. Read the paragraphs until you understand it and write your summary sentence.

Use your own words : in addition to being selective, after you read a section, ask "What is the author's main point?" Recite it, and quickly write it in your own words. Don't simply quote the textbook in your notes or you'll miss the opportunity to seek comprehension and personal understanding.

Write in full sentences : do not write outline notes when summarizing information, write in full sentences. It will help you recognize the information instantly as you review. Moreover, this is what you will do when you take your exams.

Be efficient : keep alert and be efficient. Read, re-read (if necessary), do a mini-review, recite the author's ideas, and write it. Then, move on to the next paragraph.

Add visual aids : make sure you add the important diagrams and charts in your notebook. Also create diagrams for important facts and ideas. Read, recite, and review.

Create summary sections : like the end of your textbook chapters, create your own summary page with important definitions, facts, and questions derived from key areas. Each section with headings or subheadings should be summarized as well.

Russell Conwell Center

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