7 note-taking methods that can make you a top student

Success in academics often hinges less on raw intelligence and more on consistent habits—and effective note-taking is one of the most powerful of them all. Top students know that great notes are more than just a record of what's said in class—they’re a tool for thinking, organizing, and remembering.

Whether you're in a lecture, studying from a textbook, or watching an online tutorial, using the right note-taking technique can transform your learning. Here are seven proven methods to help you take smarter notes and reach the top of your class.

The Cornell Method

The Cornell Method divides your page into three parts: a wide note-taking area, a narrow margin on the left, and a summary space at the bottom. During lectures, you jot down detailed notes on the right.

After class, you fill in the left column with questions or keywords and use the bottom section to summarize the entire page. This structure encourages active recall and better organisation, making your revision time far more efficient.

The Mapping Method

Ideal for visual learners, this technique involves drawing a concept map. Start with the main idea in the center and branch out with related subtopics, creating a web of interconnected ideas.

It works especially well for subjects like history or science, where understanding relationships between concepts is key. The visual layout helps you remember information more clearly and retrieve it faster during exams.

The Outline Method

One of the most classic approaches, the outline method involves structuring information hierarchically using headings and indents. Main ideas are listed with supporting details nested underneath.

This method mirrors how textbooks are often structured, making it easier to convert notes into summaries later. It’s especially useful for subjects that follow a logical flow, such as economics or literature.

The Charting Method

This method is best when you're dealing with information that needs comparison or categorisation, such as historical events, medical symptoms, or case studies. You create a table with different categories and fill in information as you go.

The chart format helps you spot patterns quickly and is great for memorising and reviewing organised data.

The Sentence Method

If your classes move quickly or cover unfamiliar material, this approach is for you. Every new point is written as a separate sentence, one after the other. While it can lead to lengthy notes, it ensures you capture everything. You can reorganize and condense the content later during review sessions. It’s a great method for beginners or when you’re unsure what’s important yet.

The Flow Method

More flexible and personal, the flow method combines visuals, keywords, arrows, and diagrams in an organic way. There’s no strict structure—just an emphasis on capturing the speaker’s train of thought. It encourages critical thinking and makes connections between ideas as you go. Many students use this method to actively engage with the material instead of passively recording it.

Digital Note-Taking with Apps

Using apps like Notion, OneNote, or GoodNotes allows you to combine several methods at once. You can type, draw, hyperlink, or embed resources like videos and PDFs. Digital tools are especially helpful for organizing notes across multiple subjects and accessing them from any device. If you're a tech-savvy student or someone who prefers cloud-based systems, digital note-taking can be a game changer.