How to take notes effectively on a laptop

Effective note taking skills are a very useful tool when you are in college. If you have clear and concise notes, it will make studying for tests easier and learning and retaining information will be a breeze. With all of the technology in today’s society, some students travel from class to class with their laptops instead of the traditional paper and pen. They take notes using their laptop. This can be a faster and more effective way of taking notes if you follow some helpful tips:

Organize

Improve Your Typing Speed

Go Over Your Notes

Use a Note Taking Program

Invest in a Smaller Laptop

Other Tips:

• Check with your professor first before using your laptop in class. Some professors may not approve.


• Keep your notebook handy just in case your professor draws a graph or diagram on the board, which you cannot easily duplicate on a laptop.


• Carry your AC adapter or plug with you or even an extra battery just in case your current battery runs out during class.


• Be sure to pay attention to the lecture while you take notes so you do not miss any important demonstrations.

Using your laptop can be more effective than the traditional pen and paper method, however if you think you cannot pay attention and take notes on your laptop, then you may want to consider using just a notebook and pen.