August 3, 2022
Note-taking
Before Lecture:
- Consult learning objectives for lecture
- Review any slides
- Read assigned content
- Choose a note-taking strategy
- Add date and page number to notes
During Lecture:
- Listen for signposts
- Process and paraphrase
- Write questions for professor
- Prioritize content over handwriting
After Lecture:
- Make connections
- Compare/contrast
- Summarize
- Ask questions
- Sort info (use charts, tables, graphics)
- Review readings and slides
Listening Tips
- Listen for introductions. Get to class on time to hear the context and overview of the lecture.
- Listen for emphasis. Signposts like when the professor slows down, says “this is key,” “here are the main points,” etc. reveal important information.
- Listen for conclusions. At the end of a lecture, the professor will often summarize key info.
Overcoming Challenges
- The professor speaks quickly! Trust yourself to identify main points; don’t write everything. Effective note-taking is about processing, not recording. Compare notes with peers later.
- Lecture halls are distracting! Sit at the front where you won’t see other students’ screens or get drawn into side conversations.
Suggested Note-taking Method: The Cornell System
- Divide page into a column on the left 30% of the page’s width (cues), a column on the right 70% of the width (notes), and a row at the bottom with 5-7 lines (summary).
- Cues: key words, relevant textbook pages, diagrams, anecdotes
- Notes: important point-form details recorded during lecture
- Summary: main ideas and themes, summarized after class
Improve your writing and study skills! Book an appointment with a writing advisor and/or academic coach on OSCARplus. Questions? Email skills@mcmaster.ca.