Learning Success Guide: Strategies for Thinking, Learning, and Writing

Mind Mapping

For visual learners, mind mapping helps create a spider web of information

• Always keep your notes organized, dated, and neat. Notes that can not be read are no good to you! 
• Put your topic in a middle circle, then branch points and ideas off of it. 

Cornell Notes

Cornering the Cornell System: Leave space in your lecture notes to create more specific points or ideas. This style tends to split your page in half: the notes you took in class, and the analyzing you complete later.

Outlining 

Outstanding Outlines: Create a written outline of what you have learned and what is important 

• Use headings and subtitles to properly divide up your notes 
• It's difficult to outline effectively during class, so you may need to reorganize and write it later (check the "Systems" tab for ideas on how to do this!)

How to Outline Class Notes Outline Guidelines Printable version of the outline image

Charting

Creating Charts: This method works best for subjects that can be broken down it to categories (like similarities/differences, date/event/impact, pros/cons, etc). Consider this method for date-heavy history classes and lab-specific science classes. 

Use columns to divide up your information into appropriate locations.

Charting Outline Printable version of the charting image

L-STAR

This is an active strategy that works with each note taking system:

Listening:  To take good notes you must first be a good listener. Sit near the front of the room, watch your professor’s expressions, then write it down  Setting it down: No two professors are the same! You must adapt to each classroom setting and determine how to best take notes for each course. Develop a shorthand so you can take notes quickly and efficiently.  Write ‘w/’ instead of ‘with,’ put a * near important information…  Translating: Often students take notes so quickly, or take so many notes, that they become nothing more then a word jumble! After your classes, that same day, take a second look at your notes to make sure everything makes sense and is relevant. It’s easier to do this while the information is fresh then it is to relook it up while you’re studying for a test.  Analyzing: While you are translating your notes, take a second to make sure you know what they mean and why they are important. This may help you shorten or clarify your notes. Remembering:  Once you have listened to the lecture, taken your notes, and translated then analyzed them it is time to study! Read the notes online, create mnemonic devices, work with a study party.