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Topic 3: Listening-Comprehension and Note-Taking and note making
This course is often called GST 101 and is designed for 100-level students. However, the course code might differ across universities—such as GST111, GNS 101, or GSE 101—but the core lessons remain the same regardless of the code assign to it by the institution.
Introduction
This topic combines two critical academic skills: understanding what you hear and writing down useful information. Whether you’re attending lectures, watching educational videos, or listening to tutorials, this unit teaches you how to listen with purpose and take notes that actually help you study. This is topic 3 in module 1, you can access the topic 2: Listening and Comprehending
Objectives
By the end of this unit, you should be able to:
- Define note-taking and differentiate it from note-making
- Explain how to take effective notes during lectures
- Apply techniques to make your notes more useful
- Recognize what to avoid when taking notes.
1. Note-Taking vs. Note-Making
- Note-taking is the act of writing down important points while listening to a speaker or during a live class.
- Note-making happens during personal study—it involves summarizing textbooks, articles, or your own ideas in your own words.
2. How to Take Notes Effectively
To make your note-taking productive, follow these tips:
- Listen first, then write – Pay attention to understand what the speaker is saying before putting pen to paper.
- Write only the key points – Avoid trying to copy every word. Focus on ideas, facts, and supporting examples.
- Use abbreviations – Shorten common words (e.g., “b4” for before, “w/” for with). This saves time and keeps you focused.
- Use symbols – Arrows (→), slashes (/), equals (=), and bullets (•) help structure your notes quickly.
- Leave space between ideas – This allows you to add extra information later when reviewing or studying.
- Highlight keywords – Underline, circle, or write in capital letters the most important terms.
- Be neat – Messy notes are hard to read and harder to revise from.
DO:
- Listen with focus before writing
- Capture major points and transitions
- Use shorthand and organize your notes clearly
DON’T:
- Write full sentences or try to copy everything
- Ignore structure or transitions
- Use too many abbreviations that confuse you later
A. Real-Life Examples
-
Lecture: You’re in a Biology class. The lecturer says, “Typhoid is caused by bacteria found in contaminated water.”
Note version:
→ Typhoid = bacterial infection from dirty water -
Seminar: Speaker says, “Note-taking helps retention.”
Note version:
→ Notes aid memory
C. Practice Exercise
Task:
Listen to a short educational video or podcast. Write:
- Title of the topic
- 3 key points
- 2 vocabulary terms
- Summary in 2 sentences
Topic: The Internet
Main Points:
- Internet = global connection of networks
- Uses: info sharing, learning, business
- Tools: browsers, emails, search engines
Abbreviated version:
→ Internet = worldwide net
→ Used 4 info, edu, biz
→ Tools = browser, email, search
E. Reflection Questions
- What part of my notes is unclear?
- Did I focus too much on writing and miss the speaker’s idea?
- How can I improve my note structure next time?
Now that you understand how to take notes while listening, here are a few smart tricks to make it easier and more effective:
1. Find Your Note-Taking Style
You don’t have to copy every word. Try to write in your own words—just the main ideas. Some of you might prefer bullet points, others might like arrows, boxes, or diagrams. Do what works best for you.
2. Create Your Own Shortcuts
Use abbreviations that make sense to you. For example:
- govt = government
- b4 = before
- w/ = with
- & = and
Make a list of your shortcuts and use them every time. They save time during fast lectures.
3. Try Mind Mapping
Instead of writing in straight lines, try drawing your notes. Put the main idea in the center and draw branches for supporting points. It’s fun, creative, and helps your brain remember better.
4. Review Right After Class
Don’t wait days to look at your notes. Go over them the same day. Add extra points, highlight key terms, and write one sentence that sums up the lesson. This will boost your memory.
5. Learn from Your Friends
Compare your notes with a classmate. See what they wrote that you missed—and vice versa. You’ll both learn something new and sharpen your listening skills.
6. Use Apps if You Like Digital Notes
Prefer typing? You can use apps like:
- Google Keep for quick notes
- OneNote for organized subjects
- Notion to combine your notes, tasks, and reminders
- Fresh Note, which we design specifically for students
Pick one lecture this week and practice these tips. Can you write notes that are clean, short, and easy to understand later?
You're not just writing for now—you’re writing to help future you succeed in exams and presentations.
Let me know when you're ready for Topic 4, or if you'd like a summary handout of everything so far!
Effective note-taking helps you remember, revise, and organize what you hear. When done right, it becomes your academic superpower—helping you succeed in tests, projects, and class discussions.