Notetaking

How to take notes

There are many methods of note taking. Most people follow a linear method. This involves working down (or across) a page and using sub headings and colour to highlight and link points. Some people prefer to do spider diagrams or mind maps.

Many people combine the above methods e.g. using a linear method to make initial notes and then a spider diagram/mind map to organise their notes and begin planning their essay. Any method is correct, it is simply a case of trying them out and finding which works best for you.

Below are some of the key points to remember when making notes:

• Keep your notes brief – do not write full sentences
• Be selective – only note down what you will potentially use
• Use spaces on your page to help you organise your notes
• Consider using pictures, sub-headings and colour to organise your notes
• Include referencing details
• Do not just copy, put it into your own words
• Allow sufficient time
• Actively read (do not just copy, think about what you are reading, what it tells you, how you engage with it and how you can use it..)

Video: Introduction to Notetaking

An introduction to notetaking for academic writing.

Duration: 1 minute 09 seconds

Organising your notes

There are different methods of organising your notes, some examples are shown below.

• Flowcharts
• Spider diagrams
• Mind maps
• Bullet points, sub-questions and tables