Academic Resource Center Study Skills: Note Taking Contact: Angie S. Pickens, MA University of North Alabama Coordinator, Academic Resource Center

Materials  3-ring binder (keep class syllabus in here also)  Notebook paper  Multi-colored pens  Hi-lighters

Before Class  Review notes from previous class meeting  Write down any questions you may have  Read assigned materials  Have notebook organized  Date and number a new sheet of paper

During Class  Sit near the front of the classroom  Only write down key words or short phrases  Leave space between topics  Write page numbers referenced by the instructor  Write down any examples given  Ask questions  Write neatly  Highlight anything the instructor emphasizes

Note Taking Methods  Outlining  Summary  Concept Maps  Fishbone Diagrams  Cornell Method  Split Page Method

Note Taking Methods  Outlining- summarize key points and sub-points  Summary- summarize what you think is important; used for reviewing

Note Taking Method: Concept map (provides visual clues how ideas are related)

Note Taking Method: Fishbone Diagram (forms a conceptual map where information is directly related)

Note Taking Method: Cornell Method Divide notepaper in 2 by drawing a line 2 inches form the left- hand margin. On the right hand of the line, take down info. You hear in class. On the left side, write key words & phrases that will make the review process easier.

Note Taking Method: Split Page Method Divide your notebook page in half lengthwise. Draw a line down the middle of the page. Take class notes on one side of the page and outline the textbook on the other side. This integrates class notes and textbook together.

Use abbreviations as much as b/c w/ + w/o > ex. < *

After Class  Review notes as soon as possible  Edit or rewrite notes if needed  Write any questions that you may have for the next class meeting

Good Note Taking skills can improve your study habits, which can improve your grades!!!