Note Taking Tips

Please note: I found the following advice very helpful in many ways for reaching my academic goals.  At the bottom of this page is the book source I found such from and further resources I may provide links/info for

Bored in class?   Sit in the front. Take notes. Write questions. Participate in discussions.

No pen?                 Always carry two [or more]

Can’t find your notes ?  Use [a standard] 8 1/2-by-11-inch notebook.  Organize it into different sections, one per class

Daydream a lot?    Try to notice it.  Refocus.

Can’t spell; also can’t write?  Write anyway.  Use a dictionary to make corrections when you review.

Confused?  Write down questions.  Ask questions.

Illegible penmanship?   Practice.  Take notes.   Slow down.  Focus on key words.

Crammed notes?  Leave lots of space between points.

Nervous about missing lecture material?   Take notes and use a tape recorder, with the professor’s permission.

Can’t remember notes?  Review regularly.

Leave things out?   Edit notes after class or reading.  Share notes with classmates.

Instructor talks too fast?   Ask him or her to slow down.  Focus on key points. Ask questions  ”

Excerpt from Urban Learners: Serious about College Success Second Edition  edited by Robert C. De Lucia “Additional Note-Taking Tips”

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