Note taking methods & tools - discussion

[Clark]

Principle #1: Specify your note-taking purpose and only then think about tools and methods.

[Clark]

This blog post contains a method for remembering what you read (that's the purpose of this technique).

Here's the technique. Minimum technology. :-)

Before you start reading a new book, take out a blank sheet of paper. Write down what you know about the subject you’re about to read — a mind map if you will.

After you are done a reading session spend a few minutes adding to the map (I use a different color ink).

Before you start your next reading session, review the mindmap (I use mine as a bookmark sometimes.)

Put these mind maps into a binder that you periodically review.

Here is more than you want to know about mind mapping: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mind_map

[Clark]

In a resources topic Riri mentioned Typora, a minimalist text application using markdown.

It seems odd to me to use markdown for note taking. It feels as though it would get in the way more than help. But I've never tried it.

Do people use markdown in note taking?

[Riri]

I think some people might be used to markdown formatting more than keyboard shortcuts like what MS Word has. But we can't be sure haha.

[Clark]

Well, the reason I asked is because if I'm taking notes I'm not really concerned about formatting, which clogs my brain up. Plain text makes the most sense to me. Although I admit I like bulleted lists even in note taking.

An entirely different answer to the whole thing: Handwriting for the win! (Handwriting need not be on paper or only on paper.)

So, people, what do you think about formatting while note taking? Or about handwriting vs. any computer text method?

[Marta]

I've only tried handwritten note taking so far, the information sticks better and it's what I'm used to.
Ideally, having all my notes logged digitally in one place seems really appealing, I'd like to try moving to Notion once I complete my bullet journal from this academic year.

I rarely take notes when I'm reading fiction, I just underline quotes I love.
On the other hand, when I'm reading non-fiction, I like to read through one chapter at a time, then summarize and write down my thoughts on it. I make sure that I absorb the information on that chapter/section in particular before moving to the next one and, if possible, apply what I learned to my daily life. I can't bring myself to read a non-fiction title in one or two sittings (unless it's really short) without properly digesting it.

[Clark]

Marta wrote: "I've only tried handwritten note taking so far, the information sticks better and it's what I'm used to...."

Are the notes in a bound notebook or separate sheets or what?

There have been a lot of articles on the web saying that handwriting notes improves understanding and memory of the material.

[Clark]

An article: "Effective Notes using Mind Maps"