How to Take Better Notes

1. Be prepared for class.
Effective note-taking is more than a technique; it’s a mentality. It’s normal to show up to class (or a meeting) and not really be in the mood to be there. But here’s what you can do to become more engaged. Get there early and sit in the front of the room so you stay more alert. Bring your favorite beverage or snack, if allowed. Have a designated page in your notebook or book that’s ready to go. Use a bookmark in your notepad or dogear the page so you can quickly flip to where you want to be without taking time as the class starts to find your page. If you like to use multiple pens and highlighters, have them lined up on your desk for easy access. Or, if you’re taking digital notes, make sure the app is up and ready on your device, so you don’t have to worry about unexpected updates or lagging.

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2. Actively listen as you take notes.
It’s easy to get into a groove when taking notes and coast on autopilot. While this might make for efficient note-taking, it’s certainly not effective note-taking. Be sure to actively listen to your instructor’s words as you write or type your notes. If there’s ever a pause in the lecture, take a few seconds to review the last few lines you’ve written to make sure you’re comprehending what you’re writing rather than coasting.

3. Ask questions.
One of the best ways to stay engaged with the lecture and improve your note-taking is by asking questions. It’ll give you a chance to clarify what you’re writing. If you’re not comfortable asking questions, you can start small by setting a goal to ask one question each class period. Asking a single question every class period will help you to ensure that you’re paying close attention to what’s being said and taking better notes.

4. Develop your own version of shorthand.
Not everyone can write or type as fast as people can talk. You might feel overwhelmed trying to keep up, especially if they speak in run-on sentences. You can make it easier to keep up with the instructor by developing your own shorthand. Cut words down here and there to help keep pace with the speaker, then go back and fill in the blanks after class. It’s best to do it sooner than later to avoid ambiguity while studying for an exam. Would you rather listen to the lecture and take notes later? Record it!

5. Try sketchnoting!
You don’t have to be an artist to draw effective figures and diagrams in your notes, otherwise known as “sketchnoting”. Mountains of research has found that visual aids enhance learning, by helping us retrieve and remember info and—let’s face it—your notes will be much more visually appealing. It doesn’t matter if you’re taking an art history class or studying biology; you can make quick sketches that will help to remind you about important parts of the lecture.

6. Color code information.
Just as adding sketches helps us remember, so does adding color. Separate topics, ideas, or categories by changing pen or pencil color. Or by using a highlighter. Using different colors helps to organize information easily without using notations. If you’re not changing topics in your notes, you can still change colors with questions, definitions, statistics, dates, and more.

7. Stay organized.
Staying on top of your game, while also carving out plenty of time to enjoy life requires some organization. That’s where powerful software with organizational tools can make all the difference. It should include access to popular apps across your devices, secure cloud storage, malware protection and more. If you’re a college student, finding premium software needed at the best possible price can seem impossible. Luckily, there are a lot of great deals for college students, so make sure you do your homework.

Follow these simple note-taking tips and soon—you’ll carve out a path to success.