LibGuides: Learning Strategies: Note Taking

The 5 best methods of note taking briefly introduced in this great video.

Cornell Method

Cornell Note Taking — The Best Way To Take Notes Explained
There are many different note-taking techniques that you can use for taking notes in class, or in a meeting. We explain why Cornell note-taking is the best way to take your notes and how it works.

Cornell Notes Template

Outline Method

Outline Notes: How To Use This Method For Better Note-Taking
The outline method is one of the most common, but still one of the best note-taking methods.
It reduces editing and reviewing time of your notes.
We explain how it works and discuss it’s pros & cons.

Outline Notes Template

Flow-Based Method

The simplest form of flow-based notes is just to write down all the information, except instead of recording it into a bulleted list, you organize it spatially with arrows connecting ideas.

Three principles used in Flow-Based note taking:

Simplify. Write the information in your own words.
Visualize. Use diagrams and images to represent new ideas.
Make Connections. Connect ideas backwards, between topics, and externally with what you already know.

Click here to see an example of notes taken in the Flow-Based method.

Tips for All Methods

Note Making Tips

Mind Mapping Method

How to Mind Map in Seven Steps
Memorise these seven steps to create well structured and effective Mind Maps.
XMind - Free Mind Mapping Software
XMind is the most professional and popular mind mapping tool. Millions of people use XMind to clarify thinking, manage complex information, run brainstorming and get work organized.

Visual Method

Visual Note-Taking Rules
Tap into the power of your visual brain. Reconnect to making marks by hand as you learn to use text, layout, imagery, and color within your notes to engage your visual brain and reach your full creative and professional potential.

Power-Point Method

How to Take Notes Using PowerPoint
How do you take notes during a PowerPoint presentation?
You can keep track of your points and even create handouts from notes within PowerPoint.
Open PowerPoint and launch the presentation for which you want to take notes.
Click in the area below the slide, where it says “Click to Add Notes,” and start typing your notes.
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Video by Algonquin College.