clothesjas.blogg.se - Tips on note taking for college students

The main keywords or themes in a topic go in the centre, with related concepts branching off. It is the process of creating the mind-map that makes it an effective method because it requires active participation, improves concentration, and sharpens critical thinking abilities.

Using mental triggers such as images, icons, colours and a two-dimensional structure can help memory and retention.These connections support a better understanding of the theme or topic. Mind mapping requires that you see the bigger picture in order to make connections between facts, ideas, and details of the topic.Mind mapping challenges the brain to actively organise, contextualise and make sense of information.Images and visual placement can be easier to remember.Capturing a lot of information without using too many words, aids retention and understanding.There are distinct advantages of taking notes this way for many learners. Mind mapping is the graphical representation of notes. The Cornell notes method outlined on the next tab is one system that can help to do this. Reviewing helps you to remember old information while adding new material to your long-term memory. Use these ideas when answering exam questions, in tutorial discussions, and when writing essays.īefore reading or studying new material, take ten minutes to quickly review your older notes. Ask questions, then try to answer them. Write down original ideas in your notebook and review them regularly. Think about your own opinions and ideas as you read over your notes. Try to recite and recall all the information in your own words without looking at the notes. Then, write a summary of the ideas and facts using key words as cue words. Pawk (1989) recommends a 5-step note-taking process.ĭuring the lecture or whilst reading, write down the important information. Review notes regularly and briefly before your next lecture.If you highlight too much, it defeats the point of highlighting! Use colour – it will bring your notes to life and draw your attention to important concepts.Symbols like arrows can be used as a quick way to indicate relationships.

Use abbreviations and symbols to reduce your notes.

Do not write word for word – summarise ideas and concepts using bullet points, short phrases, flow charts, concept maps, and diagrams.

When reading through material, look for keywords, phrases, reasons and details.

Identify and select – not everything is important.

Always acknowledge the author at the end of the quote, paraphrase or summary.

Avoid looking at the original text when you summarise or paraphrase the ideas in your own words.

Have a separate notebook for each unit you are studying.Here are some general principles for good note taking: