Better notes 01
Use Cornell notes as a question-and-answer system
Divide the page into notes, cues and a summary, then use the cues to check what you can explain without looking.
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Better notes 02
Take lecture notes without writing every sentence
Record the structure, reasoning and examples you will need later. Do not aim for a word-for-word transcript.
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Better notes 03
Make textbook notes that answer useful questions
Read a manageable section, identify its purpose and write a brief explanation from your understanding before checking it.
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Better notes 04
Turn ordinary notes into a useful question bank
Write questions that require an answer, explanation or decision, then add enough checking information to correct mistakes.
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Better notes 05
Organize digital notes so you can find them again
Use a small, predictable folder structure and names that identify the course, topic and date.
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Better notes 06
Create a one-page summary without shrinking the textbook
Build the page around the relationships and decisions you need to remember, leaving out material that belongs in full notes.
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