Taking Notes on Reading

Taking notes on reading requires the same skills that apply to class notes: observation, reading, and review.

When to take notes from reading:

• When you need more extensive notes than you can write in the margin of the text.
• When you are reading from a library book, etc.

Methods to use:

• Outlining - works best when material you are reading is organized.
• Cornell method - divide paper: notes on right half, left hand column for key words and questions, summary at bottom of page.
• Paragraph form - summarize what you read in your own words, include important terms.
• Mind maps - diagrams/summaries of overlapping lecture and text material.

Suggestions:

• Style/method of note taking should vary according to the material.
• Short story or poem:

1. Read the entire thing once without taking notes.
2. Write down your immediate impressions.
3. Reread the piece, taking notes on characters, plots, etc.

Scientific/technical material:

1. Copy important formulas, terms, etc.
2. Recreate or note page number of important diagrams or figures.