Study Skills - Note Taking

You are more than half-way to being prepared for the test if you take good lecture notes. At the Learning Lab, we have more detailed information on note-taking including the Cornell Method. Here are some tips you can put to use right away.

Prepare for the lecture by:

1. Attending all classes.
2. Reading and reviewing the assignment.

During class:

1. Sit toward the front of the room.
2. Write down the main ideas as headings.
3. Indent for details.
4. Include key words and examples.
5. Use abbreviations.

After class:

1. Review your notes within 24 hours
2. Read the next assignment to get ready for the next class.
3. Predict possible test questions from headings.

Note Taking Skills Links:

1. Note Taking
   Fun session on what to write down when you’re taking notes.
   
   
2. Specific Notetaking Strategies
   Extensive help on note taking.
   
   
3. Lecture Notetaking
   Simple pretest of your current note taking ability and super step-by-step process for taking notes.
   
   
4. Graphic Organizers
   Graphic Organizers for Notes
   Access takes several steps, but worth the effort. At Appalachian State home page, type in Learning Skills Services in text box, click on the find icon, click on the Learning Skills Services hyperlink, and finally click on graphic organizers at the right side of the screen. 16 different graphic organizers are listed to help you organize your notes.