The more effective your reading and note-taking or note-making the easier it is to organise and structure your work and paraphrase what you have learned in your own words. It is an active process and is a skill that will improve with time.

There are a range of techniques for note-making and different styles suit different people, and different styles suit different purposes. Camguides look at different techniques you can use, try the different techniques to see what works for you in different situations e.g. take linear notes in lectures or when first reading a book and then summarise using the Cornell or pattern method.

1. Read and think; then use the ideas and facts from sources to shape and inform your argument
2. Be brief - notes should make sense to you!
3. Distinguish between main argument and minor points/examples
4. Note when and where notes are made & full reference of source
5. Use your own words (see our section on paraphrasing for examples)

As well as Camguides, further support for good note taking can be found at the Wolfson College Academic Skills guide on note taking and the University guidance on Study Skills.