Listening and note-taking

Ten tips for note-taking during lectures

1. Arrive on time so you hear the lecturer's introduction and proposed structure of lecture.
2. Don't try to write down every detail or word.
3. Use abbreviations where possible.
4. Use your own symbol for marking important points for later reference.
5. If the lecturer gives you a reference, take note of it and mark it for later reference.
6. If you miss something, leave a gap, and start noting again immediately. Don't waste time worrying about what you missed. You can get the information later from a fellow student.
7. Leave a margin for scribbling in or inserting symbols.
8. Write legibly and clearly.
9. Listen for indicators showing important points. The lecturer may use words such as "firstly", "secondly", they may slow down, change tone, or repeat an important point.
10. If your skills in listening to English are weak, listen as much as possible by talking to local students, watching TV, listening to the radio etc. Your skills will improve gradually.