Characteristics of Good Notes

Good notes...

• are organized:

Good notes help you make sense of confusing information. Having an organized notebook creates order when ideas are not well connected. The information here will help you create an organized notebook even if your professor isn't particularly organized.

• include main points, supporting details and examples:

Notes often contain only the main points, because that is what is written on the board or in the slide presentation. But, your notes are the only record you have of what was discussed, so they should contain the details and any examples that were given as well. If the lecture is based on textbook material, the details and examples are even more important because the main ideas will be in the book later.

• reflect the lecture patterns of the professor:

Every professor has a particular style. Some are very organized, while others jump from topic to topic. He may start with the big ideas and then cover the details, or she may start with the details and lead up the big idea. Some professors like to use visual aids (writing on the board, slide presentations or demonstrations) and others may just talk. Some may appear to read directly from notes, while others seem to speak completely spontaneously. You should be able to see patterns after a few classes, and let your notes follow that style.

• allow for self-testing:

When reflecting on your note-taking, consider how you study and write them in a way that supports your study habits. Use that margins to write questions about the material that help you understand what you have written. Just reading over notes can give you a false sense of security about what you know. Answer those marginal questions without looking back at your notes.

• last:

Your notes should make sense to you days, weeks or even months after you have written them down. Focus on trying to capture complete thoughts, and develop shortcuts to help you take notes faster and legibly. Nothing is more frustrating when you are trying to study than expending most of your mental energy deciphering your own notes.