Does note- taking stress you out? I meet students all the time who are overwhelmed with taking notes in their classes. Some try to copy down everything they see and hear while others give up and don’t write down anything. While note-taking is not fun it shouldn’t have to be stressful. In this video I offer a couple of basic tips for taking notes stress-free.
What’s your favorite color?
Your favorite color brings about a positive feeling. Take advantage of this while note-taking by writing in your favorite color.
Abbreviate to Alleviate =)
Abbreviating words, events, names, etc. like many people do while texting can alleviate some stress while note-taking.
Example: The Declaration of Independence was signed August 2nd, 1776
Abbreviated: Dec. of Ind. = 8/2/1776
Click HERE for a list of abbreviations for note=taking.
Get your attention!
What get’s your attention? Color stimulates our brains. We notice shapes and symbols before words. Use various symbols such as a star to make key words stand out. When you are reviewing your notes use various colors in the form of highlighters, pens, markers, pencils, etc. to highlight, underline, write, and draw on your notes. The more colorful your notes are the better!. Make them pop!
This week’s challenge is …
Incorporate your favorite color(s) in some way into your notes.
Melanie Black is an Associate Certified Academic Life Coach and mindfulness educator. She is passionate about helping others and learning all she can in the process. With ten years of experience in the field of education, she is determined to help students succeed in school and life. “ One of my goals is to continue to be a humanitarian who helps our local community. I am passionate about my relentless pursuit of knowledge and desire to help others.“
