How to Take Notes


The purpose of note-making is to summarize information in your own words so it's easier to reference when you need to go back and find content, as well as for information for studying. Basically, you want to take a large body of content, and take a few points down so you can remind yourself of the main points of the content. 

Before you begin: 

  • Note-taking methods. Make sure you are using a method that is comfortable to you. You can take word-processed notes, create a bullet-journal, make visual doodles or drawings, draw diagrams, create colour-coded Post-it notes, complete graphic organizers, make verbal recordings on your phone, or even handwrite your notes. You need to pick a method that works for you!

  • Avoid copying word-for-word from your readings or webpages: you risk being caught for plagiarism, and this can result in academic discipline.

  • Avoid distractions (and be realistic!). All readers are different. One reader may be able to listen to loud music while note-taking, while another reader may need complete silence. Make sure your studying area is free from distractions.

Tips for taking effective notes

  • Look for and note words in bold or in different colours. These can indicate important vocabulary words, concepts, or other ideas that will help you remember or make sense of what you read.

  • As you read paragraphs, summarize the main ideas of the paragraph using 1-2 sentences. You should do this as you go through a reading.

  • Look through the reading/content. Are there charts, images, pictures, or video links? This additional content is called "supplemental material". Supplementary material can help clarify what is being discussed in the main part of your readings. Make a note of these as you review the content.

  • Divide your readings into chunks. Try reading one page at a time, or a few paragraphs at time. Then, stop and take notes.

  • Use your finger, a ruler, or a highlighter to track as you read. Using your hands can help you focus on what you are reading.

  • Use a dictionary, thesaurus, or glossary to make sense of unfamiliar words.

  • Note specific dates, people, or groups as you read. Sometimes creating a timeline of events can help you recall the information.

  • Write down the information in your own words: sometimes readings can be very dense and complicated. You need to rephrase the information in a way you can remember it.

  • Organize your notes. This can be done by chapter, subject, or page number. This will make it easier for you to refer back to when you need to find the information.

  • Always use your own words, but if you quote the author, give him or her credit. (See Tutorial: How to Cite References.)

  • Use as few words as possible, but keep it clear!


Some suggestions for studying from your notes

  • Write vocabulary/glossary terms on index cards with definitions on the back. Get someone to quiz you.

  • Illustrate terms visually/make doodles as a memory aid.

  • Group and regroup the information (look for similarities, differences, and patterns).

  • Find links between pieces of information.

  • Make graphic organizers for the information.