Note Making

TAKING NOTES (from books, articles and in lectures)

1. Why take notes?

a) to help concentration

b) to provide a written record

c) to gather material on a specific topic

d) to record information/ideas

2. Selecting the content

There is no simple answer to questions about what notes should include and what they should not include. What you take down will depend upon your reason for taking notes and your knowledge of the area. However you should:

a) try to get an overview, some lecturers and authors help you by providing summaries.

b) look out for and note down words or concepts, these will help you recall a whole range of images or ideas.

c) include diagrams, charts etc. which are relevant to your needs.

REMEMBER THAT PEOPLE HAVE DIFFERENT STYLES WHEN WRITING OR LECTURING AND THAT YOU WILL HAVE TO ADAPT TO THESE.

3. Writing the notes

a) Expression

Use your own words, unless you wish to have a record of the writers exact words, in which case indicate clearly that a direct quotation has been made and note the exact source.

b) Linear Notes

Key points are given as headings and issues relating to each points are listed underneath the headings; use a system of numbering and leave plenty of white space.

c) Patterned Notes

When using this method the topic of a lecture or an article is written centrally on the page and linked ideas are added as branches.

d). Recording the source

Always record, as fully as possible, the source of your notes whether it be a lecture, a journal or a book.

Organising and storing your notes

a) use file paper so that you can add to and re-order your notes (e.g. notes from articles or books can be added to your lecture notes)

b) use a ring binder with dividers

c) review your notes

Reviewing your notes If you don't review your notes regularly you will find that when it comes to revising you will have to start from scratch. Reviewing your notes regularly will enable you to accumulate knowledge and understanding. Get into the habit of checking through your notes the same day as you make them maybe using a checklist or by comparing your notes with those made by others from your group.