Study Strategies: Preparation and Note-taking

Prepare to Learn

• Survey the material to be covered before the class. This can be done in approximately 30 minutes.
• Skim the material to get a big picture. You can read learning objectives, major headings and subheadings, and graphical presentations of the material.
• If you are reading a textbook you can use the SQ4R method (Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Reflect, and Review).

Active listening and note-taking during class

• Ask questions if you don’t understand
• Write annotated notes instead of trying to write “everything”.
• Pay attention to signals from lecturers about important information.
• Different tone of voice or body language
• “It is important to know”
• “You should remember”
• “The exam will cover”
• Amount of time that a lecturer spent to cover a concept
• Definitions graphs, tables, charts
• Summaries, and re-statements of important points

©UAMS Student Success Center/ Vuk, J. M.D., Ph.D. July/2015