12 Awesome Ways To Take Study Notes When Reading

Cornell Method Divide your note page into sections: a narrow column on the left for cues, a wider column on the right for notes, and a summary section at the bottom.  

Outline Method Create an organized outline of the material, starting with main topics and breaking them down into subtopics and details. Use bullet points or numbering to structure your notes hierarchically. 

Mind Maps:   Use visual diagrams to represent connections between ideas. Start with a central topic or theme and branch out into subtopics and related concepts. Mind maps are great for visual learners and for seeing the big picture. 

Concept Mapping:   Similar to mind maps, but with a focus on illustrating relationships between concepts through linking lines. Use arrows, colors, and symbols to indicate connections and hierarchies between ideas. 

Summarization Summarize each section or chapter in your own words. Focus on capturing the main points, key arguments, and supporting details. Keep your summaries concise but comprehensive. 

Highlighting and Underlining:   Mark important passages, key terms, and essential points in the text using highlighters or colored pens. Be selective and avoid over-highlighting to maintain focus on critical information. 

Annotation:   Write comments, questions, or reflections in the margins of your textbook or reading material. Engage with the text by jotting down your reactions, insights, or connections to other concepts. 

Flashcards:   Create flashcards for key terms, definitions, formulas, or concepts. Write the term on one side and the definition or explanation on the other. Use flashcards for active recall and self-testing. 

Digital Note-Taking:   Use note-taking apps or software to create digital notes. Digital platforms offer features like searchability, organization, and synchronization across devices. You can also incorporate multimedia elements like images, audio, and video. 

Sentence Method:   Write down complete sentences or short paragraphs that capture the main ideas and key details. 

Two-Column Method Divide your note page into two columns. Write main ideas or headings in one column and corresponding notes or details in the other. This format helps maintain a clear structure and facilitates review. 

Recording Lectures or Discussions If permitted, record audio or video of lectures, discussions, or study groups. Review the recordings later and take additional notes or clarify points you may have missed during the initial session. 

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