How I Take Notes: the Best Note Taking Method | Jim Kwik

Summary

In this engaging podcast episode, 'Brain Coach' Jim Quick delves into the art of effective note-taking to enhance learning and memory retention. He introduces the 'Capture and Create' method, which involves dividing a page into two sides: one for capturing key points and the other for creating personal insights, applications, and questions. This method is designed to engage both the logical left brain and the creative right brain, fostering a deeper understanding and application of the material. Quick emphasizes the importance of not just learning information, but also applying it in practice, as knowledge combined with action is where true power lies. He challenges listeners to adopt this method, share their experiences, and even teach it to others, highlighting the benefits of the explanation effect which reinforces learning. The episode concludes with a call to action to share, teach, and review, encouraging an interactive and playful approach to learning.

Takeaways

• 📝 **Note-Taking Methods**: Different people prefer various note-taking methods, such as audio recording, handwriting, or digital note-taking.
• 🧠 **Whole Brain Learning**: Handwriting notes can improve comprehension and retention, which is beneficial for whole brain learning.
• 📲 **Digital Convenience**: While digital note-taking is convenient for sharing, it may not be as effective for understanding and retaining information.
• ✍️ **Handwriting and Digitization**: Some people prefer to handwrite notes and then digitize them for sharing, which is a good compromise.
• 📈 **Forgetting Curve**: Taking notes helps to mitigate the forgetting curve by capturing information that would otherwise be lost.
• 🚫 **Avoid Verbatim Notes**: Instead of transcribing lectures word for word, focus on key words and ideas for better learning outcomes.
• 🔑 **Capture and Create Method**: Use a divided page to capture key points on one side and create personal reflections or applications on the other.
• 🤔 **Right Brain Engagement**: Engage the creative side of your brain by using the right side of the page to explore how and why you might apply the information.
• 🗓️ **Implementation is Key**: Schedule time to implement what you've learned to turn knowledge into action and power.
• 🤓 **Teaching Enhances Learning**: Teaching the method to someone else can help solidify your understanding and improve your own learning.
• 🌟 **Limitless Potential**: The ability to create and apply knowledge is what makes us limitless, and effective note-taking can unlock this potential.

Q & A

What is the main purpose of taking notes according to Jim Quick?

The main purpose of taking notes is to capture information to prevent or reduce the forgetting curve, which is the rapid loss of information within 48 hours of learning.

What is the 'Capture Create Method' that Jim Quick introduces?

The 'Capture Create Method' is a note-taking strategy where you divide a page into two sides. On the left side, you 'capture' or take notes on the key points, and on the right side, you 'create' or make notes by reflecting on how you can apply the information, why it's important, and when you will use it.

Why does Jim Quick suggest handwriting notes rather than using digital note-taking?

Handwriting notes has been found to improve comprehension and retention of information. It engages the brain more actively in the learning process compared to typing, which can be more passive and less effective for understanding and remembering content.

What are some of the tips Jim Quick provides for better sleep?

Some of the sleep tips mentioned include avoiding caffeine past 2 pm, using an alarm clock not just to wake up but also to go to bed, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, using blackout curtains, and sleeping in a cool room to promote melatonin production.

How does Jim Quick relate the act of note-taking to the concept of 'Limitless'?

Jim Quick relates note-taking to 'Limitless' by emphasizing the power of creativity and imagination in the note-making process. By capturing and creating with notes, individuals can expand their potential, redraw boundaries, and tap into their limitless capacity for learning and applying knowledge.

What is the role of the calendar in the 'Capture Create Method'?

The calendar is a productivity tool that helps in the implementation phase of the 'Capture Create Method'. By scheduling time to apply the captured knowledge, it increases the likelihood of actually taking action and turning knowledge into power.

Why is teaching someone else a concept beneficial for the teacher?

Teaching someone else a concept benefits the teacher because it reinforces their own understanding and helps them learn the material better. This is known as the explanation effect, where the act of teaching solidifies the teacher's grasp on the subject.

What is the importance of implementing the ideas captured in notes?

Implementing the ideas from notes is crucial because knowledge alone is not power. It only becomes power when it is acted upon. Therefore, applying what is learned is the key to transforming knowledge into a force for personal or professional growth.

How does Jim Quick suggest one can enhance their comprehension and retention of information?

Jim Quick suggests enhancing comprehension and retention by using a combination of handwriting notes and actively engaging with the material through the 'Capture Create Method', which involves both taking in information and creating reflections and applications on the right side of the page.

What is the 'Quick Thinking' program mentioned by Jim Quick?

The 'Quick Thinking' program is one of Jim Quick's flagship offerings aimed at enhancing an individual's ability to think and adapt, solve problems, make better decisions, and be more creative. It is a training program that aims to develop these skills over a period of time through daily sessions.

What is the significance of the left and right sides of the brain in the 'Capture Create Method'?

In the 'Capture Create Method', the left side of the page is associated with the left brain, which is logical, language-driven, and sequential. This side is for capturing or taking notes. The right side of the page is associated with the right brain, which is more imaginative and creative. This side is for creating or making notes, which involves reflecting on the captured information.

How can note-taking help mitigate the forgetting curve?

Note-taking helps mitigate the forgetting curve by providing a tangible record of the information learned. This record can be reviewed and reinforced, thus aiding in the retention of the material over time. The act of writing or creating notes also engages the brain in the learning process, which can further enhance memory retention.