Note-Taking

In the age of Google and smart phones, we have seemingly limitless information at our fingertips. But when it’s test time and the phone goes away, then we have to rely on what we have stored in our own brains. Taking notes during class lectures not only helps you prepare your brain through further study, but just the act of writing things down makes an impression on you and makes the information easier to remember.

When taking notes, start with any material written on the board. Then as the lecturer continues, watch for any repeated concepts or phrases, or anything given special emphasis (like “you’ll need to know this for the final”). Listening for word signals (this is the third viewpoint) can also help you make sure you didn’t miss anything.