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The 5 R’s of Note-taking

Record

During the lecture, write all meaningful information legibly.

Reduce

After the lecture, write a summary of the ideas and facts using keywords as cue words. Summarizing as you study helps to:

  • Clarify the meanings and relationships of ideas
  • Reinforce continuity
  • Strengthen memory retention
  • Prepare for exams in advance

Recite

To study properly, you must recite all the information in your own words without looking at your notes or the text.

Reflect

Think about your own opinions and ideas as you read over your notes. Raise questions, then try to answer them creatively. Record original ideas in your notebook and review them regularly. Use your creative ideas when answering exam questions, in classroom discussions, and when writing papers.

Review

Before reading or studying new material, take ten minutes to quickly review your older notes. Skim over the main ideas and details. Reviewing enhances your retention of old material while adding new material to your memory.