Tips for Taking Notes

Taking notes during an English lecture may seem difficult, but it is easier if you follow these steps.

Write only the most important words.

Broken English is OK for taking notes! In fact, it is difficult to write down every word that the teacher says. Note taking is not dictation.

Example:

The teacher says: “The State of Missouri is located in the American Midwest. The eastern part of Missouri is part of the Woodland Region of the United States, and the western half of Missouri is on the edge of the Great Plains region.”

You write: Missouri – American Midwest. East half – Woodland Region. West half – Great Plains.

Write only the main ideas.

Sometimes teachers will give lots of unnecessary information. Try to get the general information first. Fill in specific information later.

Example:

The teacher says: “Today’s lecture will cover three aspects of American Culture: The issue of land size as it relates to the American mentality, the influence of European cultures, especially Northern European cultures on American political and social thought, and finally, the effect that Capitalism has had on every aspect of American life.”

You write:

American Culture

1. Land

2. Influence of Europe

3. Capitalism

Sit Close to the Teacher

Research shows that students who sit closer to a teacher during a lecture not only understand more, but also learn more and get better grades. Sitting in the back of the class is a bad choice.

Bring a Cassette Recorder

Even native speakers can’t hear everything that is important. They record the teacher’s lecture while taking notes. Then later, they can listen again to catch important details they missed in class.

Ask Questions

One way to slow down a teacher is to ask questions during his or her lecture. You can get more information, and you can catch up if the teacher is going too fast.