Taking Notes in the Classroom - Preparing to Take Notes

First, an individual that is attempting to take good notes should have all the materials that he or she needs to take notes ready and waiting before the individual's class even begins. The materials that an individual should always have available before taking notes should include several sheets of paper and several writing instruments such as pens or pencils. Even though any paper or writing instrument will do, it is usually best for an individual to have a loose-leaf notebook and several pencils. Using a pencil will allow the individual to erase mistakes that he or she makes in his or her notes and the loose-leaf notebook will allow the individual to move pages of notes around easily in order to keep the individual's notes organized. Secondly, the individual should make sure that he or she has completed any assignments related to the material that he or she believes the professor will be covering in class. For example, if the professor assigned a reading, group of problems, or a handout for homework the night prior, the individual should make sure the assignment is completed before the class begins. This will allow the individual to know some information about the topic prior to the professor discussing it and professors will often discuss the material specifically as it relates to assignments that they have assigned, so it may be difficult for the individual to understand what the professor is discussing if the individual did not complete the assignment. Finally, the individual should quickly review any notes that he or she has already taken about the topic being covered before class begins. This will allow the individual to refresh his or her memory regarding key information that may relate to the topic that the professor will be covering in that class.