9 Tips to effectively take lecture notes according to Stanford University

Deepto Banerjee

Oct 1, 2024

Be Selective with Your Notes

Focus on capturing the most important ideas from the lecture rather than transcribing everything verbatim. Prioritize key concepts and themes to avoid information overload and improve retention.

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Use Cue Words

If you’re unsure about a concept or struggling to keep up, jot down a single “cue” word. This will help jog your memory later, allowing you to fill in missing information when reviewing your notes.

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Look for Key Connections

Pay attention to lecture material that ties together important themes. Use comparison and contrast techniques to help organize and categorize information, making it easier to recall later.

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Develop the Intention to Learn

Be actively engaged during the lecture. Show up with the goal of understanding concepts as they are presented. The more you grasp during the lecture, the less memorization will be needed later.

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Listen for Clues

Observe changes in the speaker’s tone, body language, or pauses. These non-verbal cues often indicate that crucial points are about to be made. Being attentive to these signs can improve the accuracy of your notes.

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Sit Up Front and Participate

Sitting closer to the front can help minimize distractions and improve focus. Think of yourself as participating in the lecture, not just attending it. For online lectures, turning on your camera can boost engagement.

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Compare Notes with Peers

After class, compare your notes with fellow students. This can help fill gaps in your understanding, introduce new perspectives, and refine your own note-taking techniques.

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Prepare Before Class

Spend a few minutes before each lecture reviewing the syllabus, previous notes, and assigned readings. This will help you anticipate key topics and better understand how the lecture content connects to the overall course.

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Test Your Understanding

Consider testing yourself on lecture material. By anticipating exam questions or giving yourself a pretest, you can identify areas of strength and weakness, ensuring you are well-prepared for future assessments.

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Thanks For Reading!

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