Mastering Non-Linear Note-Taking for College Success

Attend a lecture and take notes using a traditional linear method. Focus on key concepts, definitions, and examples. Review notes immediately afterwards and fill in any gaps. Implementation intention: When I sit down to study on Tuesdays, I will immediately start taking linear notes.

Read a chapter from a textbook and take notes using a traditional linear method. Focus on identifying the main arguments, supporting evidence, and key terminology. Summarize each section in your notes. Implementation intention: When I sit down to study on Thursdays, I will immediately start taking linear notes.

Exchange linear notes with a classmate and provide constructive feedback. Focus on clarity, completeness, and organization.

Watch a tutorial on mind mapping techniques (e.g., using software or hand-drawing).

Take your linear notes from the lecture in Phase 1 and transform them into a mind map. Commit to creating a mind map for every lecture moving forward by publicly stating your goal in the group discussion forum.

Participate in a group discussion forum to share tips and strategies for effective mind mapping.

Learn about the concept of a single canvas for note-taking and strategies for effectively organizing and connecting information on a single page or digital workspace. Consider using tools like Miro or similar platforms.

For a new lecture, combine linear note-taking, mind mapping, and other techniques to create a single canvas of notes for the entire lecture. Include key concepts, examples, connections, and personal insights. Continuously build upon the canvas with new information from subsequent lectures.

Mark your progress in a tracker to visulaize advancement through the modules and actions.