Tips for Taking Notes while Reading

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

• When you need more extensive notes than you can write in the margin of the text.
• When you are reading from a book that you cannot write in such as a borrowed book, library book, etc.

Methods to use:

• Outlining -- works best when the material you are reading is organized.
• Cornell method -- divide your note paper into three sections: notes in the right column, key words and questions in the left column, and a summary at the bottom of the page.
• Paragraph form -- summarize what you read in your own words and 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:
• Read the entire thing once without taking notes.
• Write down your immediate impressions.
• Reread the piece, taking notes on characters, plots, etc.

• Scientific/technical material:
• Copy important formulas, terms, etc.
• Recreate or write down the page number of important diagrams or figures.

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