Codes and specialized marks in note taking involve using symbols, abbreviations, and color-coding to quickly identify and categorize information. This helps organize and prioritize notes, making them easier to review and recall.
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The Boxing Method is a visual note-taking strategy where each main idea or topic is enclosed in its own box. This layout helps separate information clearly, making it easy to scan and review later. It's especially useful for visual learners and works well with digital tools that allow you to move or rearrange boxes. Each box can include supporting details, diagrams, or keywords related to the main point. This method is great for summarizing lectures with distinct sections or for studying multiple concepts at once.
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Video on Boxing Method from Austin Peay State University
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The charting method of note-taking (also known as "matrix method" or "grid notes" is a structured technique that organizes information into a table format of columns and rows in order to easily categorize data. It's especially useful when there is a need to compare and contrast different topics. The information can be arranged in either chronological or by order of importance, and can be personalized to best suit your needs. The basic components of a chart are just simple columns with labels/categories.
Using the charting method requires less time writing so you can listen-in more on the topic being discussed. It is a a great tool for comparing subjects which is useful for fact checking. The Charting method helps in creating an outline by helping to sort your information as you take notes.
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The Cornell Method is a structured note-taking system that divides the page into three sections: a cue column, a note-taking area, and a summary section. During lectures or reading, you are able to take detailed notes in the main area, then later add keywords or questions in the cue column to help with review. At the bottom, a short summary reinforces understanding of the material. This method allows for strong organization and easy ways to look back at your notes and annotate/comment.
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Digital notes refer to the practice of taking and organizing notes using electronic devices like laptops, tablets, or smartphones instead of pen and paper. This strategy allows students to type, search, and edit notes easily, often using apps like Microsoft OneNote, Google Docs, Notion, or Evernote. Digital notes can include multimedia elements such as images, links, audio recordings, and videos to enhance understanding. They’re easily stored, backed up, and shared, making them convenient for collaboration and long-term use. However, some research suggests that typing may lead to less retention compared to handwriting, so it's important to stay engaged while using this method.
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Flownotes is a flexible, free-form method of note-taking that focuses on capturing ideas as they come, without a rigid structure. Instead of writing in straight lines or predefined sections, students jot down thoughts, questions, and connections in a flowing, creative layout. This method encourages the use of visuals, arrows, and doodles to show relationships between ideas. It’s designed to mimic how the brain naturally processes information, making it easier to remember and understand. Flownotes is especially helpful during lectures or brainstorming sessions where ideas move quickly and unpredictably.
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Mind mapping or Mapping is a visual note-taking method that helps organize information using diagrams. You start with a central idea or topic in the middle of the page, then branch out with related subtopics, keywords, or images. Each branch can have its own smaller branches, showing connections between concepts. This method encourages creativity and helps you see relationships between ideas clearly. It’s especially useful for brainstorming, planning, and studying complex subjects.
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The Outline Method is a structured way of note-taking that organizes information hierarchically using bullet points or numbers. Main topics are written as primary headings, with subtopics and supporting details indented underneath. This method helps clearly show the relationship between ideas and keeps notes organized and easy to review. It works especially well for lectures or readings with clearly defined sections.
The Outline Method is extremely popular with undergraduate students. This technique is widely used because it's simple, flexible, and well-suited for lectures and textbooks that present information in a structured, hierarchical way. It helps students clearly organize main ideas and supporting details, making notes easier to review and study. Additionally, many students use digital versions of the Outline Method on laptops or tablets due to the convenience of editing and organizing information electronically. That said, preference can vary depending on the student's learning style and the subject matter.
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The Q/E/C Method stands for Question/Evidence/Conclusion and is a critical-thinking-based note-taking strategy. Students begin by writing a question related to the topic, which helps focus their thinking and guide their note-taking. Next, they gather and record evidence from the lecture, reading, or discussion that helps answer the question. Finally, they write a conclusion based on the evidence, summarizing their understanding or argument. This method is especially useful for subjects that involve analysis, such as science, history, or English.
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The Sentence Method is a simple and straightforward note-taking style where each new idea or fact is written as a separate sentence on a new line. It helps capture information quickly, especially during fast-paced lectures. This method keeps notes organized in a linear way, making them easy to read and review later. However, it may lack structure, so it's best for topics that are presented in a clear, sequential order. It’s a good starting method for students who are new to taking notes.
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Sketchnoting is a creative note-taking method that combines drawings, symbols, and handwritten text to visually capture ideas. It focuses on using simple sketches, arrows, and icons alongside keywords to represent key concepts. This method helps improve memory and engagement by making note-taking more interactive and personal. It’s especially useful for visual learners or when summarizing complex information in a fun, memorable way. Sketchnoting doesn’t require artistic skill—just clear, meaningful visuals.
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The Split Page Method is a note-taking strategy where the page is divided into two vertical sections: one for main ideas or questions and the other for detailed notes or answers. The left side is used for cues, key terms, or questions, while the right side contains explanations, facts, and supporting information. This layout encourages active engagement by helping students connect questions with detailed answers. It’s similar to the Cornell Method but focuses more on pairing related concepts side by side. The Split Page Method is especially helpful for studying, self-quizzing, and summarizing lecture material in a clear, organized way.
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