DURING THE LECTURE:

Make a complete record of the class

It’s better to have too many notes than too few; you can always cut later.

Abbreviate and write in phrases, rather than complete sentences. However, be sure to write enough words so you’ll understand the concepts later on.

Date your notes. If you use loose-leaf paper, number your pages.

Pay special attention to:

the main topic of the lecture (usually given in the first few minutes of class)
terms, definitions, and examples
topics and lists
points emphasized or repeated
verbal explanations or details that explain key ideas written on the board
times when the professor specifically mentions or corrects the text

SAME DAY AS THE LECTURE:

As soon as possible after class, carefully read over your notes, adding information to clarify points. Highlight or circle key words and phrases.

Inexperienced notetakers may want to re-copy notes for better organization, compare notes with a classmate, or add details by comparing notes to the textbook

Ask yourself, “What are the key ideas of this lecture?” Write an overview at the end of your notes, and box it in.

MAKE SOMETHING TO STUDY FROM LATER:

Use an active learning strategy to pull out the most important information from the lecture. Doing this after each lecture won't take very long. Depending on the content of the lecture, you may want to use one of these strategies, or think of one of your own:

Keep a chart of key terms if technical language is especially important in the course.

Predict test questions, and make a study sheet or study cards with the information you'll need to answer those questions.

Make a time line if sequence is important.

Collect information on a classification chart.

Write questions in the margins of your notes.

Use colored pens or markers to identify the most important information in the lecture.

REGULAR REVIEW:

PRACTICE using your study devices to produce the information that you have identified as important.

Niagara University

Office of Academic Support