What is the best way to take notes in class?

The most effective method is to write notes by hand rather than typing, since research shows handwriting forces you to process and summarize information rather than transcribe it verbatim. Use the Cornell method: divide your page into a narrow left column for key questions or cues, a wider right column for main notes, and a summary section at the bottom. Focus on capturing main ideas, not every word. After class is just as important as during class. Review and rewrite your notes within 24 hours while the material is fresh, filling in gaps from memory or the textbook. Connecting new information to things you already know helps retention significantly more than simply re-reading your notes later.