How I Take Notes for Different Subjects

Summary

This video script discusses the importance of effective note-taking for different subjects, introducing the 'QEC' (Question, Evidence, Conclusion) framework for non-technical classes and the 'PSA' (Problem, Steps, Answer) for technical ones. It emphasizes the need to understand big ideas in technical courses and to annotate steps in problem-solving. The script also highlights the limitations of these methods and suggests that synthesizing information for a deeper understanding is crucial for top students, hinting at more advanced note-taking techniques.

Takeaways

• 📚 Note-taking is a crucial skill not typically taught in schools, which can be challenging to master across different subjects.
• 🔍 There are two main types of classes: non-technical (literature, history) and technical (math, science), each requiring a different note-taking approach.
• 📝 Cal Newport's three-part framework (QEC: Question, Evidence, Conclusion) is suggested for non-technical classes to structure notes effectively.
• 🤔 Professors often teach in a QEC framework but may not explicitly state it, requiring students to identify the key components themselves.
• 🌟 Use visual cues like stars to mark potential test questions and areas needing further clarification.
• 📉 For complex conclusions, it's important to group evidence and understand which supports which conclusion to make notes clear.
• 📱 Utilize note-taking apps with features like nesting or toggling to organize and review notes efficiently.
• 🔢 In technical classes, the PSA (Problem, Steps, Answer) framework is key, focusing on understanding the process and reasoning behind solving problems.
• 📈 Annotate steps in problem-solving to understand 'when' and 'why' certain methods are used, not just 'how'.
• ❓ Encourage active participation in class by asking questions to clarify steps and annotations for a deeper understanding.
• 🧠 Beyond the basic frameworks, top students synthesize information to form a comprehensive understanding, which enhances note-taking and learning.
• 🚀 For advanced note-taking techniques, explore methods like mind mapping to achieve a deeper understanding and more effective review.

Q & A

Why is it surprising that schools don't typically teach good note-taking skills?

It's surprising because note-taking is a crucial skill for learning and understanding various subjects, yet it's often left to students to figure out on their own despite its complexity and importance in academic success.

What are the two types of classes mentioned in the script, and how do they differ in terms of note-taking?

The two types are non-technical classes like literature and history, which are text-heavy and involve long reading assignments, and technical classes like math and science, which involve problem sets, calculations, and equations. The note-taking strategies for each type vary due to the nature of the material covered.

What does the acronym 'QEC' stand for in the context of note-taking for non-technical classes?

QEC stands for Question, Evidence, Conclusion. It's a framework to structure notes by identifying and recording the main question, supporting evidence, and the conclusion for each significant point in a lecture.

Why is it challenging to identify the QEC components during a lecture?

It's challenging because professors may not explicitly state the question, evidence, or conclusion, and they might go off-topic or ramble, making it difficult for students to discern what information is important and relevant to the main points.

What is the recommended action if a professor does not clearly state the question during a lecture?

Students should put a star or some other marker next to the relevant information to remind themselves to come back and identify the question later, as it is likely to be a test question.

How can students deal with complex or multiple conclusions in their notes?

Students should group together the evidence that supports each conclusion and make their QECs as clear as possible. This helps in understanding the different perspectives or outcomes presented in the lecture.

What is the 'PSA' framework for note-taking in technical classes, and what does it emphasize?

PSA stands for Problem, Steps, Answer. It emphasizes the importance of recording sample problems and their solutions, as well as annotating the steps to understand the reasoning behind them, rather than just memorizing the steps.

Why is it suggested to annotate the steps when taking notes for technical classes?

Annotating the steps helps students understand the 'why' and 'when' behind each step in solving a problem, which is crucial for applying the knowledge to different problems and not just memorizing the process.

What is the limitation of the QEC and PSA methods mentioned in the script?

The limitation is that these methods mainly facilitate learning information in isolation. They may not encourage students to synthesize multiple pieces of information together to form a bigger picture or understand the reasoning behind the steps well enough to handle more complex questions on exams.

What is suggested for students aiming to achieve a deeper understanding of the material beyond the QEC or PSA methods?

For a deeper understanding, students are advised to explore more advanced note-taking techniques, such as mind mapping, which can help synthesize information and form a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Who is Cal Newport, and what is his perspective on note-taking?

Cal Newport is a professor at Georgetown University who was a top Ivy League student. He has interviewed other top students across the country and has written about how to become a straight-A student. He offers multiple perspectives on note-taking, although the script suggests some disagreement with his approach to technical classes.