Getting the most out of lectures

Karen DellarStudy Skills AdvisorStudy amp Learning CentreRMIT University

RMIT University 2

Being there

RMIT University 3

How do I learn in a lecture1048707

Be an active learner1048707

Lectures are just one component of the course1048707

Do not treat it as a stand alone item

RMIT University 4

Outline of session

What you should do before and after lectures

Active Listening What is important ndash what you should note

Note-taking methods organization systems abbreviations

Before the lecture

Discuss How long should you spend preparing for the lecture

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 2

Being there

RMIT University 3

How do I learn in a lecture1048707

Be an active learner1048707

Lectures are just one component of the course1048707

Do not treat it as a stand alone item

RMIT University 4

Outline of session

What you should do before and after lectures

Active Listening What is important ndash what you should note

Note-taking methods organization systems abbreviations

Before the lecture

Discuss How long should you spend preparing for the lecture

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 3

How do I learn in a lecture1048707

Be an active learner1048707

Lectures are just one component of the course1048707

Do not treat it as a stand alone item

RMIT University 4

Outline of session

What you should do before and after lectures

Active Listening What is important ndash what you should note

Note-taking methods organization systems abbreviations

Before the lecture

Discuss How long should you spend preparing for the lecture

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 4

Outline of session

What you should do before and after lectures

Active Listening What is important ndash what you should note

Note-taking methods organization systems abbreviations

Before the lecture

Discuss How long should you spend preparing for the lecture

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

Before the lecture

Discuss How long should you spend preparing for the lecture

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 6

Lecture preparation

What do you think you could do to prepare for lectures

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 7

Before the Lecture

Get an overview Do not do detailed

reading at this stage

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 8

Before the lecture

Check the unit outline for topic SkimSkim text main reading for week Read through PowerPoint notes for lecture (if

available) Check key words in subject specific dictionary

Ask yourself What is this topic mainly about How does it fit into previous work

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

During the Lecture

Active Listening

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 10

During the lecture

Sit close to the front watch and listen carefully

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 11

During the lecture

Listen actively for structure Does the lecturer Begin with a review of the previous lecture Use an introduction to outline the lecture Use main points to structure the body of the

lecture Give examples to illustrate ideas Summarise the lecture in the conclusion Give further references for additional

information

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 12

During the lecture

Donrsquot write everything

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 13

During the lecture- What to note

Discriminate between main points and

supporting information Concentrate on principles and arguments With PowerPoint notes ndash highlight

underline and make additional notes

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 14

What is important

Notesreferences on whiteboard Repetition Repetition Repetition Repetition EmphasisEmphasis = tone of voice or gestures

time spent on a point

number of examples used Reviews at beginning of lecture Summaries at the end

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 15

What is important

Write down anything the lecturer numbers Lists steps and sequences are often on exams

Note when the lecturer uses key phrases likeldquoI canrsquot emphasise enoughhelliprdquo

ldquoThe most important event washelliprdquo

ldquoTwo points to remember arehelliprdquo

ldquoYou will need to knowhelliprdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 16

Listen for language signals to show

Important pointsldquoThis is centralhelliprdquo ldquoThe most significant aspecthelliprdquo

Examples ldquoThis is illustrated byhelliprdquo ldquoAn example of this ishelliprdquo

ReasonsldquoThis is becausehelliprdquo

ConsequencesldquoThereforehelliprdquo ldquoAs a resulthelliprdquo

Changes to a new topiclsquoLetrsquos move to another concern for educatorsrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

After the lecture

DiscussWhat are some things you can do after the lecture to ensure you understand and remember important points

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 18

After the lecture

In a group Compare lecture

notes Are your notes clear and complete

Discuss content

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 19

After the lecture (within 12 hrs)

Rewrite your notes More explicitly Draw diagrams make

a visual summary Make a summary for

exam purposes

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 20

After the lecture (within days)

Consult (or at least locate) references given in lecture

Read (or at least file) the articles photocopies in context

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 21

After the lecture

Listen again if you have recorded the lecture

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

Note taking

Systems and techniques

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 23

Task Find notes you have taken for a lecture

Check to see if you have used a system

consistently Is it still easy for you to pick out the main

ideasissues in your notes from the examples and supporting details

Can you see the relationship between the ideas and easily follow the information contained in your notes

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 24

Reasons for taking notes

Helps you to concentrate and assists understanding

Provides a gauge for what is important when reading for assignments and revising for exams

Writing helps you remember key points Notes in your own words are easier to remember Provides a structure to develop a topic further

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 25

Get your notes organized

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 26

Strategies for lecture note-taking

Keep lecture notes on each subject in a separate folder (or in separate parts of the folder)

Note title of lecture and date Begin a new page for each lecture Write on one side of the paper Number the pages Leave wide margins and space for additions

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 27

Note-taking techniques

The outline method One idea per line Indent details less important ideas Some students use a numbering system

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 28

Example of outline method

1) Main idea 11 subtopic

example

example

12 subtopic

details

example

2) Main idea

21 subtopic

22 subtopic

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 29

Divided page method

Divide page into two columns Left Column -main idea key terms Right Column - definitions examples supporting details This is useful for vocabulary lists

Eg OUTER EAR

function direct sound waves to tympanic membraneanatomy pinna auditory canal

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 30

The Cornell Note-taking System

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 31

Cornell Note taking

Record the lecture using short sentences

Questions formulate questions and write in RH side column

Recite Cover the notes and answer the questionscue words aloud

Reflect What does it all mean

Summarize After class at the bottom of the page

Review every week

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 32

Note-taking techniques

MAPPING TECHNIQUESEach main idea has related details branching from itEg TOPIC

MAIN Idea MAIN Point

Explanation Example

Example

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 33

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 34

Note taking Essentials

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 35

Using space effectively

Performance Is our most manageable resource (not heredity or environment) school

employer

personality

Too much emphasis on onersquos IQ Results from Buttrsquos study on twins genetic discredited in 1973

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 36

USE ABBREVIATIONS

1To show relative importance of ideasLarge OR UPPER CASE LETTERSunderline key wordshighlight for emphasisCircle important ideas

2To show connections between ideasarrowscircles

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 37

Abbreviations

To identify information you did not understand

question marks exclamation marks spelling not known (sp) look up later (lul)

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 38

More Abbreviations

To condense notes and make notetaking more efficientuse wordsphrases rather than complete sentences

Use accepted abbreviations in general use and those for your subject areas

eg for example ie that isdef definition wo withoutgt increase = equallt decrease amp and

Devise your own abbreviations for commonly used words in your subject area

dept department strtg strategy ref references diff difference

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo

RMIT University 39

How would you advise these students ldquoHis lectures are so boring I canrsquot keep awakerdquo ldquoIt was only when I re-read my notes that her

lecture made senserdquo ldquoYou were able to take notes ndash you must be jokingrdquo ldquoI have never heard half of the terms beforerdquo ldquoI didnrsquot realise she was giving a summary when

she said lsquoNow to recaprsquohelliprdquo ldquoHe confused me with all those examples and

stories What was he on aboutrdquo