Home Guides Taking Effective Notes During the Lecture

Introduction

Before the Lecture

During the Lecture

Example

Listening Hints During the Lecture

After the Lecture

The Cornell System for Note Taking

Step 1

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Taking Notes During Discussions

Using Notes to Write Papers

Using Notes to Study for Exams

Additional Resources

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Authors & Contributors

During the Lecture

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).

• View Example