Library Basics Week 7: Taking good notes to absorb information
Last week in our Library Basics blog series, we talked about active reading and critical reflection as methods of retaining information. This week, we will touch on another key skill you’ll want to develop at uni: how to take good notes.
To build long-term knowledge and understanding, it’s important to actively engage with information you read, see or hear. Part of actively engaging with content is taking notes.
There are various strategies you can adopt. Notes can be handwritten, digital, audio, visual or a combination of the above. Read on for tips about each of these methods.
Textual notes
- The humble pen and paper! Many students find this works best for them. The physical act of writing can keep you alert and help you focus on capturing main concepts and core ideas.
- Annotate readings using tools such as a PDF’s highlight, edit and comment functions, if available.
- Use digital note-taking tools – such as MS Word, OneNote or Evernote – to make notes on readings or lecture presentations.
- Convert audio notes into text.
Audio notes
- Use your phone or a recording device to create a verbal summary immediately after a lecture.
- When listening to a pre-recorded lecture, pause every so often to record your thoughts or any questions you have on the lecture topic.
Visual notes
- Take screenshots or photos of helpful slides during a presentation.
- Create graphs, sketches or infographics of written notes (analogue or digital).
Be strategic about your note taking
- Include a meaningful title for your notes, as well as the date.
- Include any reference details – you may need to return to the original source later.
- Be prepared to review, revise and summarise your notes. This is especially useful for exam preparation.
- Deakin’s Academic Skills have developed a very handy guide on reading and notemaking, which will help to focus your note taking.
Remember, you have years to develop these skills in a way that works for you. Take the time to experiment with different methods, adapt and refine your note making processes as you learn. Explore and reflect on what you find the most useful.
To learn more about making notes, check out the Library’s guide for Making Digital Notes. For further support contact the Study Support Team.
Are you in your first trimester at Deakin or returning to study after a break? We’ve got you covered. Each week, we’re sharing a tip, tool or service we think you should know about. The Library is key to your success at uni – make the most of everything we have to offer by following our Library Basics series.
Next week’s Library Basics blog will cover how to ensure you’re referencing correctly. Subscribe to Article to get the latest blogs from Deakin Library directly in your inbox.