Preparation steps before a note-taking session:
<ul>
<li>Try to get familiar with the topic that is going to be discussed, beforehand. This leads to better understanding. </li>
<li>Make sure you have adequate notepaper and writing material.</li>
<li>Stay hydrated and consume caffeine moderately.</li>
<li>Don't go in hungry, opting for a wholesome snack.</li>
<li>Have a positive attitude, and a willingness to pay attention.</li><li>If something is getting repeated in class or is indicated to be important, pay attention.</li>
</ul>

Note Taking - Starter Tips

The mind map is a visual diagram of abstract concepts.It works best in subjects like chemistry, history and philosophy, subjects having a neural network like interlocked and complex topics.

The Mind Map

Using a laptop is not an ideal way to take notes or to learn, during a lecture.<ul><li>A laptop distracts and impairs the learning process, as you might be tempted to play games or multitask with it during lectures.</li><li>In the old-school hand-written method, you are processing the information, leading to better understanding and learning.</li><li>How you use the computer also matters, and many students can use the internet to learn or re-check information on the fly.</li></ul>

Using a Laptop

<ul><li>Simply Write on PPT Slides: An easy method to take notes is to just write on the slides of the presentation. The PPTs have note-taking space in them and if you are able to get them in advance, the whole process becomes simple.</li><li>Bullet Journaling: Turn a blank page into a beautiful representation of your thought process. You can go crazy and include mind maps, flow notes, colorful design styles, making the note-taking process a delight, and learning in the process.</li></ul>

 Slides and Bullet Journaling

Taking a structured approach to note-taking is the best way. Put the outline notes by choosing four or five key points of the lecture, followed by in-depth sub-points. One way to review is to use the Cornell Method, which divides the note sheet into three sections:<ul><li>Cues: It includes key questions and main points. </li><li>Notes: Which you write during the class using the outline method. </li><li>Summary: Which you can write after class while reviewing.</li></ul>

Outline Method

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Using a Laptop

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Revision of notes

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Generation Effect