The Mapping note taking method is a more visual way to organize your class notes. This technique is useful when learning about relationships between topics.
ADVANTAGES:
Useful for visual learners who struggle with studying from notes.
Helps you remember and connect relationships between topics.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The page is organized by topic. The main topics branch out into subtopics with detailed information about each.
HOW DO YOU USE IT?
While in class, begin the map with the main topic.
Branching off the main topic, write a heading for each of the subtopics.
Write any important notes underneath each subtopic.
Continue the pattern.
THE OUTLINING METHOD
The Outlining note taking method uses headings and bullet points to organize topics. This method is most useful when learning about topics that include a lot of detail.
ADVANTAGES:
Allows notes to be neatly organized.
It is easy to see the relationship between topics and subtopics.
It is easy to turn points into study questions.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
Each section starts with a heading of the main topic. Each subtopic and supporting fact is written underneath the proper heading.
HOW DO YOU USE IT?
During a lesson, begin your notes with a single bullet point and write the main topic.
Place the first subtopic below and indented slightly to the right.
List any details below your heading and slightly to the right.
THE CHARTING METHOD
Charting note taking method uses columns to organize information. This method is useful for lessons that cover a lot of facts or relationships between topics.
ADVANTAGES:
Facts are organized and easy to review.
Highlights key pieces of information for each topic.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The page is divided into columns labeled by category. The details of each category are filled out in the rows below.
HOW DO YOU USE IT?
When information about a category is mentioned, jot it down underneath the proper column.
When the next topic begins move down one row and begin again.
