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Note Taking in Class

Systems and methods for better note taking that lead to faster learning.

Outlining

Outline Method

This is a hierarchical system. Dash or indented outlining is usually best except for some science classes such as physics or math.

  1. The information which is most general begins at the far left with each more specific group of facts indented with spaces to the right.
  2. The relationships between the different parts is carried out through indenting.
  3. No numbers, letters, or Roman numerals are needed, but may be used.

Best Use: The outline format can be used if the lecture is presented in outline organization. This may be either deductive (regular outline) in which the major points are refined by minor points or inductive (reverse outline where minor points start building to a major point). Use this format when there is enough time in the lecture to think about and make organization decisions when they are needed. This format can be most effective when your note taking skills are super sharp and you can handle the outlining regardless of the note taking situation.

Example: