Note-Taking Strategies

Just as there are many options when it comes to digital tools for note-taking, there are also a variety of note taking strategies that you may use regardless of whether you are taking notes online or on paper. 

First, determine whether or not there are any teacher or assignment guidelines related to note-taking tools or strategies.

If you are are free to choose your own strategy, experiment some of the options below and then choose what works best for your assignment and personal work style.. These methods have been highlighted since they all require you to think about information as you gather it rather than simply copying it. 

Cornell Notes

Cornell Notes is a strategy that involves writing most notes in a main space and then using left-hand space to label each idea and detail with a keyword or "cue."

Advantages:
  • Prompts you to think about information as you collect it.
  • Organizes recording and reviewing of notes.
  • Provides an easy format for pulling out major concept and ideas, saving time and effort.
Method: Rule your paper with a 2 ½ inch margin on the left, leaving a 6 inch area on the right to take notes. For every main chunk of information, write a keyword "cue," question, or subtopic in the left margin. You may also take digital Cornell Notes by inserting a table in a doc..

The Outline Method

​The outline method hierarchically organizes information with the most general beginning on the left and then each more specific group of details indented to the right.

Advantages:
  • Prompts you to think about information as you collect it.
  • Organizes recording and reviewing of notes.
  • Helps you visualize relationships between and relative importance of different pieces of information.​
Method: Place major points farthest to the left. Indent each more specific point to the right. Levels of importance will be indicated by distance away from the major point. Outline on paper or online using bullet or numbering formatting.
Outlining Method thumbnail
The Outlining Method

The Mapping Method

The mapping method involve taking notes by creating a graphic representation of content and how it is interconnected.

Advantages: ​
  • Prompts you to think about information as you collect it.
  • Helps you visualize non-linear relationships between different pieces of information and draw connections.
Method: Draw on paper, or use an online mind mapping tool, connecting information that is related.