How to Raise Your GPA: Three Note Taking Strategies

How to Raise Your GPA with 3 Note-Taking Strategies

So, in my opinion, the real key to learning, whether in school or for your own edification, is to find various systems that work, and then use them.  After many years in college, and a variety of experiments on different ways to learn, I have found a few things to share and advocate.  I plan on writing a whole series of hubs on better study techniques, and how to raise your GPA, so if you're interested, please click on follow me.  And, as always, I love comments and fan mail, so don't hesitate to hit me up.

In this article I have included three of the methods I use on a daily basis (at least when I'm attending school).  Make sure to check out the various links and resources I have included, as well as the book Learn More, Study Less, by Scott Young.  I purchased the book when it first came out and find it a great way to get started on increasing your GPA, in college or high school.

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The Cornell Method

Quite possibly my favorite method of notes, especially in classes that are intensive on details, dates, etc. I typically use this method in history courses that are heavy on information. The idea is that the paper has three sections - the notes section, a "cue" section, and then a summary section. You can see an example to the right of the this blurb. You can tailor any of the steps to suit your needs, but typically, this is how to use the Cornell Method:

• Notes section: take your typical notes here. Attempt not to take them down verbatim, but allow yourself to synthesize the information - to basically create your own words from what you're learning.
• Cue section: This is basically the margin. You place cue words that give you a bit of understanding as to what is in the notes section. I also add questions to this side, with the answer basically being in the notes section.
• Summary: At the end of each page, write a three sentence summary. It is key to summarize in your own words. It allows you to create your own words, and have your own level of understanding.

Tips

• Cover up the "notes" side. Use the cue to asks questions, see if you can answer them, and check your answers
• Commit to review the summary section every day. You will become very much aware of the material (remember, this isn't your only review of notes, just something in addition to your exam prep strategies)

Links / Resources

• PDF Example with Notes on How to Use this Method HERE
• Custom Cornell Note Generator HERE
• Great Article from LifeHacker.com on this Method HERE

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