Effective Note-Taking Checklist
Preparation
Gathered necessary materials (notebook, pens, digital device, etc.)
Reviewed previous notes on the topic (if applicable)
Identified key questions or areas of focus
Selected appropriate note-taking method for the content type
Set up note template or structure before beginning
During Information Intake
Actively listening/reading rather than transcribing everything
Capturing main ideas and key concepts
Using abbreviations and symbols for efficiency
Creating visual elements (diagrams, mind maps) where helpful
Marking confusing points for later clarification
Noting connections to previously learned material
Highlighting potential test/application questions
Leaving space for later additions and clarifications
For Cornell Method
Created cue column (left, ~2.5 inches wide)
Used main note-taking area for content (right side)
Left summary space at bottom of each page
Added cue questions/keywords after initial note-taking
Wrote summary connecting main points at bottom
For Mind Mapping
Placed central topic/concept in middle of page
Created main branches for primary subtopics
Added secondary branches for supporting details
Used colors to distinguish different themes/categories
Incorporated visual elements (icons, symbols)
Connected related concepts across different branches
Kept structure organized and readable
For Outline Method
Used clear hierarchical structure (I, A, 1, a, etc.)
Maintained consistent indentation for hierarchy levels
Included only one concept per notation
Used parallel structure for similar-level items
Left space to add details later
For Charting Method
Created appropriate column headers for categories
Established consistent row organization
Recorded information in appropriate cells
Maintained consistent format across entries
Used abbreviations consistently
Post-Information Processing
Reviewed notes within 24 hours
Added missing information or clarifications
Created summary of key points
Formulated potential test questions
Identified areas needing further research/clarification
Connected new information to existing knowledge
Converted notes to retrieval practice materials
Tagged or indexed notes for future reference
Digital Note-Taking Specific
Used appropriate tagging/categorization
Added relevant links to supporting resources
Backed up notes to prevent loss
Utilized search functionality for efficient retrieval
Incorporated multimedia elements when helpful
Organized in a consistent file/folder structure
Note Maintenance
Scheduled regular review of important notes
Updated notes with new information as learned
Consolidated related notes from different sources
Created master summaries for complex topics
Purged or archived outdated or irrelevant notes