Taking Effective Notes

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Some teachers are better lecturers than others, and after a few classes you'll know more about the lecture style of each teacher. You can accommodate different styles by keeping some simple logistical tips in mind:

• Write on one side of the paper. (Use the back for sketching graphs/charts/pictures/timelines, writing questions, summarizing, making notes to yourself later.)
• Leave lots of blank space in between concepts and whenever you don't understand something or daydream.
• Use consistent abbreviations (try elmntng vwls), symbols (like arrows, underlining, etc.), and sentence fragments.
• Don't worry about creating elaborate outlines--just keep main ideas and examples together.
• Don't worry about spelling or handwriting (as long as you can read it).

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