Non-linear note-taking Vide 1

using mind maps or spidergrams that start with notes in the middle of a page, usually in an oval representing the subject, and then spread out with ‘legs’ making links north, south, east and west. You don’t Vide 2

such notes in time sequence but in terms of meaning, similarity or hierarchies of importance or association.

They Vide 3

the internal workings of your brain, rather than the external event, the lecture. Each time you get a new idea, your mind makes several links to your existing ideas, links that have not existed before. The more links you can Vide 4

to existing knowledge (by preparing, for example) and then create as you listen, the better you will have captured knowledge and made it your own.

This will also Vide 5

you multiple access points to that knowledge, instead of just two – time and space. Occasionally, you’ll make bad links, for instance, if you mishear something the lecturer said – Napoleon’s mysteries or Napoleon’s mistresses, say – but you’ll be more likely to Vide 6

the problem and correct it if you use mind maps rather than linear notes.

In order to take non-linear notes or mind maps you have to use additional sheets of paper at the top, bottom and sides so the notes Vide 7

onto them giving a holistic overview, which is easier to understand. Notes produced in this way usually look nothing like the lecturer’s overheads or paper handouts.

They’re the interpretation of the writer, truly representing his understanding of how what he’s heard fits in with what he knows. He’ll also Vide 8

the lecture well for future use because he’s set up his own system of links and connections rather than using the time and space system of most lectures.

However, they can Vide 9

up a lot of space and can sometimes work better as a group project after the lecture, when everyone can contribute their understanding of the main points, and areas that are not clear.

Some lecturers Vide 10

participation in class by using mind-map and brainstorming methods, usually with one person noting the ideas of a group – a great way to try them out. Such notes can take up a lot of horizontal space, so it helps to have small writing and Vide 11

neat!

If you see someone using mind-map note-taking techniques in a lecture try to sit near him and perhaps Vide 12

his notes with yours over a coffee and chat. You’ll probably see he’s noted down less than you and can give a summary of the lecture without much head scratching.’