Each of the following statements describes issues in taking effective notes. Check the rating that best reflects your current behavior for each item. Be as honest and objective as you can. You’ll recognize your notetaking strengths and improvement areas after you complete this assessment.
This means you’ll have strategies for improving the way you listen and take notes for each class.
I arrive on time for class rested and alert and with all necessary materials.
I am able to focus on what the instructor is presenting without excessive daydreaming or distracting thoughts.
I take legible notes in a consistent manner during lectures, class activities, and labs.
I have my own method of abbreviating common words and using key symbols to reduce time and space spent in writing.
I leave a couple of lines between topics and when I miss something so I can fill it in later.
I have experimented with a couple of note-taking systems to find out what works best for me.
Shortly after class I review and edit my notes to make sure I understand and can recall them.
I compare my notes with the textbook as appropriate to insure I am accurate.
I do a self-test and review my notes the next day and at the end of the week to help me learn them.
I create a master set of notes from the class sessions and my textbook marking in preparation for major exams.
Now that you have completed the assessment, look for the items scored “often” or “almost always”. These items reflect good notetaking practices. Keep on using them. Notice the items scored “never/rarely” or “sometimes”. These are your opportunities to build more effective note taking skills.
Which single item can best help you if you put it in practice? Make that item your special focus for the next week. Then evaluate how it affects your learning. When that practice becomes a notetaking habit, then move to the next item that seems helpful and apply it to your notetaking. You are well on your way to more successful learning.
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