There is more to note-taking than you might think.
Systems and strategies may not be the terms one would associate with note-taking. It is just scribbling, isn't it? Not for Miami University, who have a course on note-taking and active listening. Is this term beginning to make sense then? Let's get to them.
The Outline Method
Simple and easy to follow; in this method, one notes down the key points with ample spaces between them.
As th session progresses, one simply jots down the relevant elaborate sub-points below the broad-based highlights.
The Cornell Method
A precursor to the previous method, this was developed by Cornell University in the 1950s.
The pages are divided into three columns: a narrow column, 'Cue' for the main points; a wider column for notes, and a 'summary' column.
Mind Mapping Method
The use of the map is to serve as a visual aid for how every topic is related to one another.
Notes, in this method, are like visual aids. It works best for topics that are abstract and complex with multiple correlations like in say, Philosophy, Chemistry, and History, etc. The main subject is in the centre with information branching out if it.
Flow Notes Method
This method maximizes active learning while reducing reviewing time. Here notes are further embellished with arrows, doodles, diagrams, and graphs to cover all the bases contained in the topic and make cross representations of the same. Sometimes this method can prove to be a bit cumbersome to review. So, pairing this method with any one of the above would be a good idea.
The Sentence Method
A simpler version of flow notes, this is actually plain transcribing a session, trying to note it in verbatim. If one can keep up, then, there's no other method that is so comprehensive. A clever way of dealing with this would be to make sure that the accuracy in important areas is not being sacrificed.
Charting Method
Finally, a method for lazy note-takers. It has the mechanism of the Cornell method, with the sheet divided into three columns and the functionality of the mind mapping method, which helps to connect various relationships and facts between the topic.
This process entails noting down mostly the key information and organising them in such a way to facilitate easy and quick reviewing.
Writing on Slides
Another one for the sloth. This method works the best if print outs of the slides are made available. One simply needs to fill in appropriate details.
