If you're new to note-taking or you want to improve your skills, this is the PowerPoint for you! This presentation has been designed by FISH to support independent study for sixth-formers and college students.
Taking notes
Why take notes?
The purpose of note taking is simple: to help you study and
revise more efficiently.
How do I take notes?Here are three different methods of
note-taking, choose the one that suits you best!
A useful video on How to take great
notes:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAhRf3U50lM Skeleton
ProseStructure your notes as sequence of numbered points and
paragraphs, with headings and indentations. This is useful for
books or articles where arguments built up slowly and
sequentially.Cornell
Mind Maps/ Concept MapsStart in the centre of a page with an
idea or heading representing your main idea or central theme.Then
create branches out from the central idea, each branch representing
a sub-theme. Each sub-theme can then be subdivided, as
appropriate.Where do I take notes?You can make them ANYWHERE!
E.g.:
On sticky notes to display around your room.On note pads which
you can flick through later.On sheets of paper for your folder.On
hand-outs given to you in class.On texts which you are studying.On
your iPad, phone or laptop.The main places you are likely to need
to take notes are:
In class during lessons i.e. when the teacher is explaining a
topic or during a discussion etc. While reading relevant articles
or texts either at home or at college.In front of the TV or a
computer while you are watching a film or video related to your
school work.
What should I be noting?For an essay: You will want to focus on
the types of information that you need. Take your notes to fill an
outline of your paper or look for themes and significant
information.
Studies have shown that students who work from broad notes do
better on tests than those who rely on taking everything down.What
type of notes you take will depend on what the subject matter
is.
For an exam: Focus on key terms, important events or facts, and
broad concepts. Know the format of your test so that you can guess
at the types of information that you need to know while
studying.
When should I take notes? Note taking is most effective during
lessons in which you are being taught KEY concepts and NEW
ideas.
It is also useful when you are reading through a relevant
article, watching a video or listening to a podcast,
Top tip: Make sure you always have a notepad and pen with you
around school or college you never know when you might want to
write something down!Dont be afraid to add pictures!
