TLDR;
This video outlines four key techniques for effective note-taking to improve information absorption and retention during lectures. It emphasises the importance of summarising information in your own words, adding detail to notes shortly after the lecture, and taking notes by hand rather than typing. The video supports its claims with scientific studies, highlighting the benefits of active engagement with the material and the drawbacks of passive transcription.
- Avoid writing down every word or phrase.
- Summarise information in your own words.
- Add detail to your notes within 24 hours of the lecture.
- Take notes by hand using a pen or pencil.
Introduction: The Efficiency of Note-Taking [0:00]
The purpose of note-taking is to maximise learning and retention during class. Instead of working longer hours, students should aim to use class time more efficiently. The goal is to extract the most understanding and resources from each lecture to make coursework easier. The video will explain how to take notes effectively in class to get the most out of every class period.
Technique 1: Don't Write Down Every Word [2:57]
It's difficult for the human brain to retain meaningless symbols. We remember the meaning behind the symbols, so writing down words without understanding them results in a transcript without comprehension or retention. Instead, students should think through the meaning of the words and summarise what they hear in their own words, using their own understanding of the material.
Technique 2: Avoid Grabbing Phrases [3:53]
Writing down disconnected phrases is worse than not taking notes at all. This is because you end up with a jumble of phrases you don't understand, and you barely listen to the parts in between. Instead, listen carefully and understand what the person is saying, then write down a summary of that understanding in your own words. If you don't understand something, ask for clarification rather than writing down something you don't get.
Technique 3: Add Flesh Within 24 Hours [6:47]
The notes taken during a lecture are like the bones of a skeleton, not a complete creature. Within 24 hours of the lecture, spend 10-15 minutes adding detail to those notes. This is because memories associated with the lecture will still be fresh in your mind. Doing this will increase your ability to retain information and have quality notes to look back on later, making your courses easier.
Technique 4: Write Notes by Hand [8:57]
Scientific studies have proven that taking notes by hand with a pen or pencil is more effective than typing. Studies show that students who use laptops in class tend to multitask, leading to lower exam scores and a decreased understanding of the material. Even when laptops are used solely for note-taking, they can impair learning because they result in shallower processing. Typing notes can be too fast, leading to verbatim transcription rather than thoughtful summarisation. Taking notes by hand forces you to summarise and process the information, which aids in absorption. There are exceptions for students with disabilities or neurodiversity who genuinely need to type their notes. However, the mere desire or perceived ease of typing is not a sufficient reason to override the proven benefits of handwriting notes.