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If you’re an avid note taker in meetings, courses, seminars or other events, then read on. We’ve pulled together five top tips to help ensure your notes are never useless again.
Do you type or write?
A number of studies show that handwriting your notes is much more effective than typing them.
If you’re able to type fast enough to take notes verbatim, the likelihood is that you’re not fully taking in what you’re typing. In contrast, when handwriting notes, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to keep up word for word. This means you need to engage your brain more to interpret what’s being said and turn it into meaningful notes.
They’re called notes for a reason…
Notes are defined as “a brief record of points or ideas written down as an aid to memory.” Keep this in mind when you’re taking them.
Try to develop your own version of shorthand. Anything will do, as long as you understand it when you come back to your notes later.
Keep it organised
Have a specific notebook for all of your note taking and use a new page for each meeting or event.
Clearly label the top of the page with:
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What the notes relate to
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The date
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Attendees (if relevant)
This will make it much easier to recall additional context and information in the future.
What are your key actions?
Do you have a method for highlighting actions or key takeaways when taking notes?
Create a clear and recognisable system for yourself, such as:
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A large asterisk (*)
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A capital (A) in brackets
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Highlighting or underlining
This makes tasks stand out instantly and helps ensure your notes are practical and actionable after the meeting.
Where are they now?
Highlighting actions is helpful, but only if you remember to revisit your notes regularly.
Instead, transfer your actions straight into your daily to-do list. This keeps tasks visible and manageable. You can always refer back to your notes later if you need more detail.
If you have more questions about effective note taking (or if you’d like someone to take notes off your hands and turn them into clear, professional post-meeting reports) we’d love to help.
T: 01903 688789
E: makeithappen@mbsmih.com