Note Taking Methods – 15 Note-Taking Techniques + Examples

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Looking for an effective note-taking technique? In this guide, you’ll find a comprehensive list of 15 popular and effective note-taking methods + examples.

The best note-taking method is the one that works for you.

Each individual has a unique learning and retaining information style, so it’s important to try different approaches and find the one that suits you best.

So, let’s dive in and explore 15 great note-taking techniques to try today!

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15 excellent note-taking methods

Here are 15 note-taking techniques you can try today to find the one that best suits your learning style and needs. You’ll also find example templates to help you get started.

Cornell Method – Cornell Notes

The Cornell Method (Cornell Notes) divides the page into three sections: notes, cues and summary.

During lectures, write notes in the main section, add questions or keywords in the cue column, and summarize key points at the bottom.

This method encourages active learning and improves recall during review. It is excellent for taking notes in class.

Outline Method

The Outline Method organizes notes into a hierarchical structure, using headings for main topics and subheadings for details.

This format helps you understand relationships between ideas and is excellent for studying or writing essays.

It’s simple and effective, emphasizing concise, well-organized information.

Mind Mapping Method

Mind Mapping involves creating a visual representation of topics and showing the relationships between ideas.

Begin with the central concept and branch out into related topics, using keywords, colors, and arrows to show connections.

It’s a powerful tool for brainstorming and organizing information in a nonlinear way, which is ideal for visual learners and subjects with complex, interconnected ideas.

Charting Method

The Charting note-taking method organizes information into columns, allowing for quick comparison of main ideas.

It’s ideal for subjects that involve categorizing information, like history or science.

The structured format allows fast scanning during review, making it practical for exams.

Sentence Method

The Sentence note-taking method involves writing each point in a simple, concise sentence.

It’s useful for fast-paced lectures where capturing key details is crucial.

Though it lacks structure, the Sentence Method allows quick note-taking and is best for straightforward information.

Visual Note-Taking

Visual note-taking incorporates both text and drawings, helping to capture ideas creatively.

Techniques like mind maps, sketch notes, and graphic notes make it easier to recall complex information through visuals.

This method enhances engagement and is ideal for brainstorming and summarizing content.

Rapid Logging Method

The Rapid Logging method is a form of shorthand note-taking that uses bullets, symbols, and abbreviations to record information quickly.

This efficient method is also used in bullet journaling.

It is useful for fast-paced situations, such as during a meeting or lecture, where you must capture key points without writing full sentences.

RELATED POST: Bullet Journaling for Beginners: A Complete Guide

Boxing Method

The Boxing Method organizes notes into boxes, each representing a specific topic or idea.

This visual structure helps identify themes and relationships between concepts.

It’s effective for students who prefer visual layouts and need clear, distinct categories for their notes.

Box and Bullet Method

The Box-and-Bullet Method outlines a central idea in a box and uses bullet points to list supporting details.

It’s simple, organized, and ideal for breaking down complex information into manageable pieces.

Flow-Based Note-taking

Flow-based note-taking captures ideas as they come without worrying about structure.

It mirrors natural thought processes, allowing for a more organic collection of information, making it great for brainstorming and subjects requiring flexibility in idea generation.

The Structured Notes Method

This method organizes notes using a predefined template or structure. It ensures consistency and clarity, making information easier to review and retrieve.

It’s ideal for formal learning environments where the structure of information is predictable.

T-Method (Two-Column Notes)

The T-Method divides the page into two columns: one for main points and key concepts and one for detailed notes.

This approach is great for organizing information concisely, allowing for easy review by focusing on key terms and their explanations.

Write-On-Slides Method (WOS)

The Write on Slides Method (The WOS Method) involves writing notes directly onto presentation slides. 

This method is helpful for lectures with pre-made slides, as it allows you to add your own annotations, keywords, and questions.

Q & A Method – Question-Answer Format

The Question-Answer Format promotes active engagement by formulating questions and answering them during note-taking.

It’s a powerful tool for improving comprehension, preparing for exams, and reviewing large amounts of material.

QEC Method

The QEC (Question-Evidence-Conclusion) Method encourages critical thinking.

You start by formulating a question, gathering evidence during lectures or readings, and then forming a conclusion.

This method is perfect for analyzing and synthesizing complex material.

Note Pages & Lined Paper Templates

Choosing the right technique by purpose

Whether you’re a student or a professional, choosing the suitable note-taking method can significantly enhance your learning and productivity.

Here are the techniques sorted by purpose:

• Brainstorming and organizing complex information: Mind Mapping, Visual Note-Taking, and Flow-Based Note-taking.
• Easy review and comparison of main ideas: Charting Method, T-Method (Two-Column Notes).
• Capturing key details in fast-paced situations like meetings: Sentence Method, Rapid Logging Method.
• Effectively managing tasks and notes in one place: Bullet Journal Method.
• Visual learners who prefer structured notes: Boxing Method, Box and Bullet Method.
• Promoting critical thinking and active engagement: QEC Method, Question-Answer Format.

Best for students and studying

• Outline Method: Ideal for organizing lecture notes and study materials systematically.
• Cornell Method: Great for capturing lecture notes and reviewing by creating summaries.
• Mapping Method: Useful for visual learners to understand relationships between topics.
• Charting Method: This method is best for subjects requiring comparisons, like history or science.
• Sentence Method: Simple and direct, helpful for capturing key points in lectures.
• The Question-Answer Format: Helps improve comprehension and prepare for exams.
• The T-Method (Two-Column Notes): This technique is excellent for organizing lecture notes. One column is for key terms, and another is for detailed explanations.
• The Structured Notes Method: Excellent for managing subjects with clear hierarchies and relationships.

Best for meetings and work

• Box and Bullet Method: This method helps organize meetings’ key points and action items.
• The Boxing Method: Helps to group related points from meetings and make ideas clearer.
• The WOS Method: Structured and comprehensive – useful for project planning and task organization.
• Flow-Based Note-taking: Suitable for creative and brainstorming meetings where ideas flow freely.
• Digital Note-Taking: Tools like Evernote or OneNote are ideal for work settings where you must collaborate and store notes digitally.
• Rapid Logging Method: Perfect for quickly capturing tasks and notes during fast-paced meetings or day-to-day work.

Best for personal productivity & creative projects

• Bullet Journaling: Excellent for organizing tasks, personal goals, and creative projects.
• Mind Mapping/Mapping Method: This method is great for brainstorming and planning creative projects, allowing you to see connections between ideas.
• Visual Note-Taking: Ideal for capturing ideas visually, suited for creatives and conceptual thinkers.

Best for quick organization & time-sensitive tasks

• Rapid Logging Method: Focuses on speed and efficiency in capturing notes, to-do lists, and events.
• Charting Method: Quick and efficient when you need to track and compare details quickly.

Quick tips for note-taking success

There is no one-size-fits-all note-taking method, as everyone’s learning style and needs are unique.

One note-taking method may work for some subjects or situations, but not all. So, try different techniques to find what works best for you.

1. Find the method that works for you and experiment with different techniques.
2. Stay organized by using consistent formatting, headings, and symbols.
3. Actively engage with your notes: paraphrase, summarize, and ask questions.
4. Use color-coding or other visual cues to highlight important information.
5. Write notes in your own words to aid retention and understanding.
6. Use abbreviations and shorthand to write quickly, but make sure you can understand your notes later.
7. Review and revise regularly to reinforce learning and identify areas that need more attention.
8. Feel free to combine methods or create your own hybrid approach.  

How to take good notes from lectures

1. Before the lecture, review any assigned readings or previous notes to familiarize yourself with the material.
2. Have your note-taking materials (e.g., notebook, laptop, and pen) ready and organized.
3. Listen actively: pay attention to verbal cues from the professor and try to understand their main points.
4. Use a note-taking method that works for you. Write down key ideas, concepts, and supporting details.
5. Don’t try to write everything down; focus on capturing critical information in your own words.
6. Take breaks if needed, but don’t fall behind, as it can be difficult to catch up later.
7. If you miss something, don’t be afraid to ask your professor or classmates for clarification.
8. Use active listening strategies such as summarizing and asking questions to help improve understanding.
9. After the lecture, review and revise your notes to fill in any missing information and reinforce learning.
10. Remember to organize and label your notes for easy retrieval later on.

Learn more about good note-taking strategies here: COMING SOON – POST IN THE MAKING

Digital note-taking vs pen & paper

Digital note-taking tools like Evernote or OneNote help organize and sync notes across devices.

These tools allow for multimedia integration, easy searching, and efficient organization. Choose a tool that fits your workflow and take advantage of the ability to edit and reorganize your notes easily.

However, studies have shown that writing notes by hand boosts retention and comprehension compared to typing on a keyboard.

Experiment with both methods to find what works best for you.

What is the most popular note-taking method?

It’s hard to determine the most popular note-taking method as it depends on personal preference and the type of content being recorded.

However, some commonly used methods include the Cornell Method, Outline Method, and Mind Mapping.

Conclusion

Effective note-taking involves:

• Actively engaging with the material.
• Organizing information for easy review and recall.
• Adapting methods to fit your preferences.  

With practice and experimentation, you can find the note-taking method that works best for you and improve your learning outcomes.

I hope that, with these note-taking methods and tips, you’re ready to take on any subject!

Review and revise your notes to reinforce learning and make studying more efficient. Happy note-taking!

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