Don’t let your notes be the reason you’re stressed! Note-taking is a skill that you can learn to be more productive and successful in your classes. Plus, who doesn’t love some good study hacks? It’s time to work smarter, not harder.
Note-taking
Cornell Method
One of the most popular note-taking methods is the Cornell method. This method is especially helpful during class lectures and to quiz yourself later.
Divide your paper into three sections: a column on the left and right with space at the bottom of the page. Use the left column to keep track of the main points, questions, or vocab to recall discussions after class. Use the right column to take notes during class. Draw charts or diagrams as needed.
Sentence Method
If your teacher is moving quickly but you don’t want to miss writing something down, use this method to capture topics as they are presented.
Write one sentence for each important point using a numbered list. If you would like, you can leave gaps in between thoughts so that you can revisit your notes after class to continue adding to them or to better group thoughts together. 
Outlining Method
If you are looking for a method that will work well in most classes, consider using the outlining method. It isn’t as visual as other methods, but it keeps things organized and can help you quickly find the topic you are looking for quickly as you study and work on your homework assignments.
Start by writing the overall topic on the far left of your paper and indent with each new subtopic. Continue to indent if that subtopic has additional information you need to keep track of. Start this process over again as you move on to a new main topic. 
Charting Method
If you're discussing the same categories for multiple topics, you can keep notes in a more visual format: charts. This method is great for quick comparisons and to visually stay organized. It’s helpful to know if you will be comparing items to set this up beforehand; however, you can always reorganize your notes after class for better studying.
The simplest way to approach this is by having main subjects listed across the top of your page with the topics you are comparing listed on the side to create a grid-like chart. Fill in the grid with notes to create a complete chart.
You might find some others chart types helpful depending on what you are comparing. So don’t be afraid to venture out and try other types of charts, like pie charts, Venn diagrams, or bar charts. Use whatever chart will visually help you the most! 
Study Hacks
1. Turn Your Handwritten Notes Into Text
For many students, the act of writing information down makes it easier to recall. However, having a digital copy can come in handy! If you’ve handwritten your notes during class but want them as an electronic format, tools like Google Docs or Adobe Scan can convert your notes into text without having to retype everything.
2. Try a New Productive Study Quiz Method
You’re not limited to the 3x5 notecards from the ‘90s. Kahoot and Quizlet are two apps that can help you quiz yourself and your friends in a productive and fun way! If you don’t love these apps, there are many other quizzing apps to try!
3. Use Your Sensory Memory to Help You Recall
Did you know that smell or taste can trigger memories? While you are studying, consider chewing a new flavor of gum or spraying an unfamiliar scent. When you’re ready to take the test, chew the same flavor of gum or use the same scent to help you remember the material you studied.
4. Get Creative With Your Notes
If you use lots of colors and visualize your study materials, you’ll have an easier time recalling information. Drawing also gives you an excuse to take out the crayons and doodle!
5. Block Distractions While Studying
If you have trouble staying focused while studying, then you’re going to want to find methods to prevent yourself from losing track of time. Consider blocking your favorite social media and gaming sites, leaving your phone with someone else, turning off your computer, or silencing notifications.
6. Learn More by Teaching Someone Else
Time to teach your own master class; after all, Albert Einstein once said, “If you can’t explain it simply, you don’t understand it well enough.” Talk out loud to better understand the content you are studying. You can also form a study group and take turns leading the discussion to practice recalling information.
7. Listen to Study Music
Music affects your mood and improves concentration. Soothing instrumental music may even reduce stress while studying. Have you made your study playlist yet? If not, you can borrow one of ours on Spotify.
8. Did Someone Say YouTube?
We’ve all got different learning styles; maybe you don’t understand something because it wasn’t taught in a way that resonates with you. Turn to YouTube and you’ll find countless tutors ready to teach you the same topic multiple ways. Don’t forget to do your research to make sure they are reputable!
Looking for more resources to help you succeed in high school? Check out our high school advice including which classes to take in high school, finding volunteer opportunities, and how to avoid senioritis.
