How to take better notes: three methods that work

Notes are not a copy of everything you hear. They are a tool to understand and remember. Poor notes are either too long, so nobody wants to read them, or too short to make sense later. Three simple methods can help.

Method 1: Cornell notes

Divide your page into three parts: a narrow column on the left for cues, a wide area on the right for notes and a summary box at the bottom.

1. During the class or video, write main points in the right area.
2. Afterwards, write keywords or questions in the left column.
3. Write a two-sentence summary at the bottom.

To study, cover the right side and try to answer the cue questions from memory.

Method 2: Outline notes

Use headings and indented bullet points to show how ideas relate. A main topic is the heading, subtopics are indented under it and details are indented further. This works well for lectures with a clear structure.

Method 3: Mind maps

Write the central idea in the middle of a page and draw branches for related topics. Add smaller branches for details. Mind maps are good for brainstorming and seeing connections, for example when planning an essay.

Tips for all methods

• Listen first, write second. Capture ideas rather than every word.
• Use abbreviations that you will remember, like "w/" for "with".
• Leave space so you can add examples or corrections.
• Date every page and write the topic at the top.

Review within 24 hours

Spend ten minutes the same day improving your notes: fill in gaps, underline key terms and add questions you still have. This simple habit greatly improves memory.

Paper or phone?

Writing by hand slows you down and may help you process the information. Typing is faster and easier to search and back up. Choose what you will use consistently. If you type, avoid distractions.

Share and compare

Study with a classmate and compare notes. You may find points that you missed, and explaining your notes to someone else deepens your understanding.

Turn notes into questions

Before an exam, transform your notes into practice questions and answer them without looking. Notes become powerful when you use them actively.

Written by the EarnNaija team at EarnNaija Digital Technologies.

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