Watch this video to learn the SQ3R (Survey or Skim, Question, Read, Recite, Review) active reading strategy.  Using SQ3R will help you to better learn and remember the things that you read for class. 

This is a widely used method of taking notes. Before the lecture divide your page into four sections. You may like to prepare a number of pages in a note book, or use this template on every second page of a note book leaving space to write additional notes after the lecture.

Layout of Cornell Note taking template

Example:

Try the Cornell Method of annotating to organize your notes and thoughts as you go.

Skimming is a skill that you should use only in certain situations, such as:

• Studying for a test
• Clarifying notes
• Writing a paper

When you start skimming, make sure to read the introduction, conclusion, and any summaries you might find.  Many times the authors will briefly discuss the key points that they want to make in those particular sections.  Also, be on the lookout for signal words.  These can alert you to other important information you can use.  Below is a chart showing you different types of signal words.

• Examples - specifically, for example/instance, to illustrate, etc.
• Cause & Effect - consequently, as a result, accordingly, hence, etc.
• Enumeration - first, second, etc.
• Contrast - on the other hand, however, despite, etc.
• Comparison - likewise, similarly, identical, etc.

Many students like to make notes and marks in their textbooks while reading.  This is an excellent way to stay focused on and engaged with the material.  Here are a couple of tips to help you: Read the material first, and then go back and mark it, mark only main ideas and supporting details, use a consistent marking method (ex. highlight main ideas, underline supporting details)

Here is a list of annotation marks you can use:

• Definitions - def.
• Examples - ex.
• Numbering - 1,2,3, etc.
• Important Info - *
• Confusing Material - ?
• Possible Test Items - T
• Summary Statements - sum.