Department of Lifelong Learning: Study
Skills Series
Note taking skills - Appendix A
Note taking skills
Note taking activities Note
taking reading list Appendix A Appendix
B
An example of linear notes
These linear notes are a summarised version of this study skills session.
General tips
- Read & listen critically
- Is it important?
- Is it relevant?
- Is it credible?
- Facts/Opinions/Examples
- Note facts & opinions
- Avoid their examples
- Summarise lecture/reading not
word for word
- Use shortcuts when writing
- Change font/colour/size for important
parts
- Write clearly
- Be critical
- Compare with other knowledge
- Look for logical flow
- Look for gaps in argument
- What is missing in argument
or understanding?
Notes as a study tool why they
help
- Part of learning process
- Extends attention span
- Remember what you have learnt
- Helps organise ideas
Use visual tools
- Linear notes
- Spray-type diagrams
Store and organise
- Use large pieces of paper with
margins
- Organise folders and filing
system
Taking notes from lectures
- Prepare for the lecture
- Use tape/buddy + good note taking
- Look for organisation clues from
lecturer
Taking notes from readings
- Know what you want from the reading
- Look for organisation clues from
headings, sections, paragraphs
- Dont write down examples
- SQ3R Approach
- Survey flip through &
layout
- Question structure and relevance
- Read twice through quickly
- Recall main points, facts
& biblio. Details
- Review repeat steps &
relate to task
Note taking skills
Note taking activities Note
taking reading list Appendix A Appendix
B