Note-taking methods are different ways of recording information from a source, such as a lecture, a book, or an article. Note-taking methods can help learners to improve their comprehension, retention, and recall of the material they are studying. Different note-taking methods may suit different types of learners, subjects, and purposes. Some of the most common note-taking methods are:
Effective Note-Taking Methods¶
Outline Method¶
The outline method is a way of organizing notes into a hierarchy of main topics, subtopics, and details. The outline method uses indentation and bullet points to show the relationship between different levels of information. This method is useful for capturing the structure and logic of the source material, and for reviewing the notes quickly and easily. However, this method may not be suitable for fast-paced lectures or subjects that do not have a clear structure.
Cornell Method¶
The Cornell method is a way of dividing the note page into three sections: a main note section, a cue section, and a summary section. The main note section is used to write down the main points and details from the source material, using any format (such as outline, mapping, or charting). The cue section is used to write down questions, keywords, or cues that can help to recall the main note section. The summary section is used to write a brief summary of the main note section after the lecture or reading. This method is useful for enhancing understanding and memory of the source material, and for preparing for exams or assignments.
Boxing Method¶
The boxing method is a way of grouping notes into boxes according to themes or categories. Each box contains a title and a list of bullet points related to that theme or category. This method is useful for visual learners who want to see the connections and differences between different topics or concepts. However, this method may not be very efficient for taking notes during a live lecture, and may require some editing or rearranging after the lecture.
Charting Method¶
The charting method is a way of using tables or charts to organize notes into columns and rows. Each column represents a category or criterion, and each row represents a topic or concept. This method is useful for comparing and contrasting different topics or concepts, and for summarizing large amounts of information in a concise way. However, this method requires some preparation before the lecture or reading, and may not work well for subjects that do not have clear categories or criteria.
Mapping Method¶
The mapping method is a way of using diagrams or graphs to represent notes visually. The mapping method uses shapes, lines, colors, symbols, and labels to show the main topics, subtopics, details, and relationships between them. This method is useful for showing how different topics or concepts are connected or related to each other, and for stimulating creative thinking and problem-solving. However, this method may be difficult to follow or review if the map becomes too complex or cluttered.
Sentence Method¶
The sentence method is a way of writing notes in full sentences, one sentence per line. Each sentence captures one main idea or fact from the source material. This method is useful for recording information accurately and completely, and for writing notes that can be easily converted into reports or essays. However, this method may be too time-consuming and tedious for some learners, and may not capture the structure or logic of the source material very well.
