Note Taking

Kadijah’s Notes

Be prepared for to take notes

1. Be awake and aware. Have a snack and/or a drink before hand.

2. Have the needed supplies. Make sure you have plenty of paper, extra pens, and a recording devise if needed.

3. Be in the right state of mind. Do not try and take notes while managing other responsibilities.

When taking notes

1. Listen for important clues

Does the speaker use the word topic?

Does the speaker give a number of things he/she would like you to take from the lecture?

Does the speaker ask questions about what he/she is talking about…even if they are rhetorical?

Does the speaker repeat something?

If the answer is Yes to any of these, then you should definitely write it down!

2. Look for import clues

If the speaker has slides, what is on the slides is important.

If the speaker writes it down, it is important.

If the speaker becomes more excited/animated, write it down.

Note Taking Types

Here are four note taking types that I find the most effective.

There are other methods, and I do suggest you do your research and find the method that works best for you.

Don’t be afraid to doodle on your notes, and if a speaker provides printable slides, try and print those out as well. They are excellent for writing notes on.