Note-taking Tips and Tools
Note-taking with a laptop may seem convenient, but research has shown that taking notes by hand
significantly improves learning ability. In this video, we'll show you some simple note taking techniques and the supplies we recommend using
Color Code Your Notes
Using different colors will help you visually separate concepts. This will also make your notes more interesting and memorable
Here we're using Zebra Sarasa gel pens. They come in a variety of fun and interesting colors
Multi pens can be helpful for quick note-taking allowing you to easily switch between colors with just one click
The Pilot Dr. Grip 4+1 multi pen is our top multi pen for note taking
It features four colors, a mechanical pencil, and an ergonomic grip
all in one pen!
Highlight Important Points
Highlighters are useful for emphasizing key terms since the pops of color demand attention. They can also be used to color code
We recommend using the Uni Propus Window Q-dry highlighters because they don't smear when highlighting over pencil,
ballpoint, or gel ink!
If you prefer softer pastel colors, check out our Pastel Highlighters Comparison video
Divide Your Paper into Sections
Many note-taking systems like the Cornell system recommend splitting up your paper into sections
The Kokuyo Campus loose leaf paper features a unique dotted line that makes it effortless to divide the paper
Using a Midori Multi Ruler, we're carving out a margin to the right and a section for the bottom
List key terms in the right section and write a summary in the bottom section
This will make the main points more obvious when you study later
Organize Your Notes by Topic
After each school day
It's important to go back to your notes and arrange them by topic. This will help keep your notes neat and organized
Taking notes on loose-leaf paper allows you to store them in binders or folders for easy organization
If you prefer the compact organization of a notebook
but want the mobility of rearranging your notes, the Kokuyo Campus Smart Ring Binder is the perfect combination.
For some subjects it may be helpful to use multiple types of paper in one notebook
The Lihit Lab Aqua Drops Twist Ring Notebook and its loose leaf paper refills allow for a custom combination of lined,
graph, or plain paper
You can also divide the different topics in your notebook or binder using page flags
This organization system makes finding relevant topics more straightforward, saving time during the hectic period before exams
Use Memo Notes
We recommend summarizing the key points of each topic on a memo note
You can quickly glance at it to review before a class or identify the sections you need to review before a midterm
The Maruman Smooth To Write loose-leaf mini paper are index cards with pre-punched holes
so that they can be conveniently inserted into most binders
Sketching out diagrams makes it easier for you to understand and remember concepts
With translucent window memos you can trace important diagrams from your text books and handouts to transfer into your notes
Here we're using the Bonomemo Window sticky memos
Let's review! Color code your notes, highlight important points, divide your paper into sections
Organize your notes by topic, and use memo notes
We hope you learned some new note-taking strategies. Do you have any useful tips? Share them with us in the comments below
See all of the supplies we used at JetPens.com