Study Strategies

Writing in a notebook while watching a virtual lecture

Try something new. It could work for you.

You are becoming more and more advanced in your classes. Your study strategies can improve and change, too.

Reading

Notetaking

Styles

Notetaking Styles

Traditional outlining is a way to organize information into main ideas and details from a longer format such as a lecture or book chapter.

Mind Maps are a good second step in notetaking. Creating a mind map is helpful for summarizing, consolidating, and categorizing material. It’s a great way to study, review, or memorize complex information.

The Cornell Notetaking System boosts your critical thinking and memory skills by forming questions and practicing recall.

Examples of 7 Kinds of Notetaking from Oregon State University.

Tips

Notetaking Tips

Effective Note-taking in Class from the Learning Center at the University of North Carolina

  • Avoid writing complete sentences
  • Notes are for your own use and not intended for others to see. So, make sure you are able to understand what you write and don’t worry about anyone else.
  • When focusing on speed, use abbreviations, symbols, and pictures instead of full words.
  • Whether you are listening or reading, look for transition signals that point to big ideas.
  • Only write what is most important. Make decisions about what to write and what not to write.
  • Write down questions frequently. You can use these later when reviewing – either to answer or to inspire further investigation.
  • Predict quiz and test questions as you write. Star or highlight items you expect may be tested later.