LIFE

Whether you didn't quite get the grades you wanted or you're tired of taking notes the same way every time, it's important to switch things up once in a while. At the start of this new semester, try out these four note-taking methods to both ace your tests *and* have the most aesthetic notes in school.

1. Cornell method

@thegraduatepen

Named after a Cornell University professor, this method consists of you dividing your paper into three sections. Take notes using bullet points and abbreviations in the right column, write down any keywords or things you want to remember in the left and leave the bottom section blank until you're reviewing your notes. Then, simply write a short summary about the notes you've taken to make sure you understand the main idea. 

2. Mind maps 

@dr.schiz

Calling all visual learners! This method is perfect for when you're planning an essay or reviewing for a history test with lots of dates to memorize. Write the central idea in the middle, then draw arrows branching out from it to show related concepts. 

3. Charts

@blueberry.studies

AKA the Matrix Method, charts help you organize your notes and summarize them so you can review all the concepts quickly. However, they're not the best at showing how topics relate to each other and don't always work for equation-based notes (i.e. math), so be sure to use this method along with other ways of note-taking. 

4. Boxing

@tbhstudying

No, not the sport! Boxing is a way of organizing your notes into boxes. It's like mind mapping, except it's better for showing information in chronological order. Separate your notes into sections, then draw boxes around them. This method also leaves a lot of space for aesthetic decorations, like drawings or stickers. Yay!

Which study method are you going to try?
Let us know on Instagram @girlslifemag! 

Slider image: @coffeemlk
Top image: @studyquill

by Cathy Li | 3/6/2023