Taking Notes in College: What's the Best Method?

Been thinking a lot about my study methods for college. Specifically, what is the most efficient way to take notes in college classes to aid understanding and recall? How does it differ from note-taking in high school? Should I use a laptop or pen and paper? Any tips or resources would be much appreciated. Thanks!

The transition to college classes often requires some modification to your studying habits, and note-taking is no exception. There's not necessarily one "best" method as it largely depends on your learning style, but there are several strategies that have proven to be quite successful for many college students.

Firstly, the Cornell Note-Taking System is a well-structured method that encourages active engagement with the material. It involves dividing your note-taking paper into three sections: on one side, you jot down key points during the lecture; on the other side, you write questions or summaries related to those points; and in a section at the bottom, you write a summary of the entire lecture. This method can be a great way to engage with the content and review important concepts after the lecture.

Secondly, the mind-mapping method is another approach that works well for visual learners. In this method, you represent information visually by drawing branches from central ideas or topics to related smaller topics, arguments, or evidence. This can be especially helpful in understanding complex concepts and seeing how different ideas are connected.

Regarding your question about using laptops or pen-paper for note-taking, research offers mixed findings. Some studies suggest that handwriting notes can lead to a deeper understanding of the material and better long-term retention, as it forces you to process and rephrase information. On the other hand, typing notes can be quicker and more organized, which can be beneficial in fast-paced lectures with a lot of content or for those who struggle with handwriting legibility. You can try both methods in different classes or sections and see which works best for you.

Lastly, it's important to revisit your notes regularly instead of cramming before exams. Reviewing notes after each lecture and periodically thereafter can significantly enhance your recall. You could also try teaching the material to a friend or a study group, which can help reinforce your understanding of the content.

In terms of resources, YouTube has a plethora of videos on effective note-taking strategies, and you might find online platforms like Evernote or OneNote beneficial for digital note-taking.

Remember, it's not about transcribing everything your professor says word-for-word. The most effective notes capture the main points, details, and examples in a way that makes sense to you. Good luck!