How to Take Notes Like the Top 1% Student
09.21.2023
When it comes to taking notes, top students have a different approach than most other students. While many students simply use notes as a means of storing information, top students view note-taking as a way to extend their thinking process. Instead of frantically jotting down every piece of information during class out of fear of missing something important, top students focus more on processing the information. This approach allows top students to learn the information in the moment, while other students may put off the learning process until later when they're forced to review their notes at home without the ability to ask clarifying questions.
How do you know if you’re processing the information in class? Take a look at your notes:
- 🩻 Are your notes more visual (diagrams, flow charts, mind maps) or are they more verbal (paragraphs of words)? Visual notes indicate that you’ve made connections with information.
- ❓ Are your notes mostly facts or stated in question form? Facts can be looked up, but questions force you to think about the information from a different perspective. For example, how would this information be asked on the exam?
- 💻 Are your notes paraphrased or transcribed? Copying what the teacher says word for word is a passive task. Put the information in your own words. Use acronyms, mnemonics, analogies, and stories to express your understanding.
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