The actual preparation for class involves the reading and briefing of assigned cases. In other words, you must identify precisely what the problem was, the solution given by the court, and the reasoning behind the court's decision. Although it is time consuming, briefing cases is strongly recommended because it forces the student to analyze the elements of a reported case and select the essential factors important to the decision. A good analysis is more than an understanding of the facts and decision. Often this can be the answer to the question phrased in the issue.
Some students prefer to quote the pertinent language of the court.
However, it is helpful to restate the holding in your own words as this will help you increase your comprehension of the case. Some students prefer to include this section before the statement of facts. Book briefing involves making short marginal notes in the casebook and is generally an inadequate study method, especially in the first year. While these notes may be sufficiently clear to help a student respond in class, the book brief is not the equivalent of extensive note taking nor is it conducive to spontaneous thought on the case. A good brief facilitates coordination of classroom notes with personal study materials and references to the case itself.