Note-Taking: The 411

Taking notes is easy—or is it? If you’re like me it just might be the hardest part of the whole learning process. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s some tips to help you power through that three hour lecture.

Do the assigned reading before class. That’s right. I said it. Your professor isn’t the only one who’s going to nag you about this. If you’re at least somewhat familiar with the material before the lecture, you’ll be much more likely to remember it. What’s more, you’ll have a better idea of which topics to best focus on and which topics require less of your time.

Fake it until you make it. Maybe the course you’re taking isn’t exactly up your alley. Maybe you’re an advertising major taking a theatre class to fill your schedule for scholarship requirements. If you go into the lecture with a bad attitude you’re going to come out with bad notes. Bad notes lead to a bad grade. A positive attitude will go a long way towards a positive outcome.

Prepare better. Runaway pencils seem to be quite a problem these days. Before you head out make sure you have everything you need to be successful. This includes your textbook. Sure, it might weigh 1,000 pounds—but that’s just the wealth of knowledge it contains. You don’t want to be the guy or gal who has to share a textbook with a neighbor. That’s just bad form.

Overall, it comes down to you. Note-taking isn’t the hardest thing in the world but it isn’t the easiest either. The effort you put into your notes has a huge impact on your grade.

Remember: Bad notes sink boats.

By Danny Holland - Danny is a senior public relations and advertising major and the Communications Intern for the Division of Student Affairs at The University of Southern Mississippi.