Margins are excellent places for coded notations. Attempt to differentiate fact from opinion. Notes should include all main ideas and enough subordinate points to clarify understanding. All formulae, rules, definitions, and generalizations should be included. Inclusion of the speaker's illustrations and examples may help clarify concepts when notes are reviewed.
Marginal notes facilitate speedy location of specific items.
After the Lecture Go over your notes as soon as possible after the lecture. Clear up illegibilities in writing, check for errors, fill in further facts and examples while the lecture is still fresh in your mind. At this point you should clear up misunderstandings or fill in missing information by consulting the lecturer, TA, classsmates, the texts, or addtional readings. Immediate review is essential to retention. Unless you review within 24 hours after lecture or at least before the next lecture, retention will drop sharply and you will be relearning rather than reviewing .