When watching videos, you should still take notes as part of your studying plan. Here are some effective note-taking strategies for video instruction.

In today’s digital age, video instruction has become a prominent method of learning. Whether you’re enrolled in online courses or simply looking to expand your knowledge, video lectures offer a convenient and engaging way to absorb information.

However, effective note-taking remains a crucial skill to enhance your comprehension and retention. In this article, we’ll explore valuable note-taking tips specifically tailored for video instruction.

note taking tips while watching video

Should Notes Be Taken While Watching a Video or After?

One common dilemma among learners is whether to take notes in real-time while watching a video or to watch the entire content first and then revisit it for note-taking. The optimal approach depends on your learning style and the complexity of the material.

If you’re comfortable multitasking, taking notes during the video can help reinforce your understanding. On the other hand, some learners prefer to absorb the content without interruption before summarizing key points afterward. Experiment with both approaches to find what works best for you.

READ: 7 Tips On How To Take Better Notes During Online Class

How to Take Notes While Watching a Video

Taking effective notes during a video lecture requires a strategic approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to enhance your note-taking skills:

1. Preview the Material

Skim through the video’s title, description, and any accompanying materials to gain an overview of the content.

2. Use Visual Cues

As the video progresses, use visual cues such as headings, bullet points, and graphics to identify key concepts.

3. Summarize Main Points

Focus on capturing main ideas, key terms, and essential details. Paraphrase information in your own words to promote understanding.

4. Utilize Abbreviations and Symbols

Develop a set of abbreviations and symbols to quickly jot down information without lagging behind the video.

5. Stay Organized

Organize your notes by creating headings, subheadings, and bullet points. This structure will aid in reviewing and studying later.

6. Engage Actively

Pause the video when necessary to process complex concepts or complete your notes on a particular point before moving forward.

7. Summarize Main Points

Come to a stopping point in the video then capture the main ideas, key terms, and essential details in your notes. Paraphrase the information in your own words to enhance understanding.

8. Pause and Reflect

Pause the video when needed to process complex concepts or complete your notes on a particular point before moving forward.

9. Ask Questions

Pose questions in your head related to the content while watching. Try to answer them as the video progresses, fostering active engagement.

10. Use Time Stamps

Record time stamps as you take notes. This helps you quickly locate specific points in the video when reviewing your notes later.

11. Record Key Quotes

If the video includes significant quotes, record them verbatim in your notes to capture the speaker’s exact words.

12. Connect Concepts

Draw connections between different concepts discussed in the video. Note how they relate to each other to enhance your overall understanding.

13. Visualize Information

Sketch diagrams, charts, or mind maps to visually represent complex concepts. Visual aids can improve comprehension.

14. Make Predictions

While watching, make predictions about what the video might cover next. This active approach keeps you engaged and attentive.

15. Review Immediately

After watching, review your notes while the content is fresh in your mind. This will help reinforce your understanding and retention.

READ: 12 Signs You Should Be Taking Notes In Class

How to Take Notes While Watching A Video on Your iPad

Taking notes on an iPad during video instruction offers added flexibility and convenience. Here’s how to maximize your iPad for effective note-taking:

1. Use Note-Taking Apps

Explore note-taking apps like Notability, GoodNotes, or OneNote. These apps allow you to type, write with a stylus, and organize your notes digitally.

2. Annotate the Video

Many video platforms offer annotation features. Use your stylus to underline, highlight, and jot down notes directly on the video timeline.

3. Screensplitting

Take advantage of your iPad’s multitasking capabilities. Split your screen to have the video on one side and your note-taking app on the other.

4. Include Visuals

Insert screenshots or images from the video into your notes to provide visual context to your written information.

5. Pen and Paper

There’s nothing like putting pencil to paper while taking notes. Set the iPad up and write down some notes. There are apps that can transcribe your handwritten notes back into the iPad. 

READ: Guide To 6 Effective Note-Taking Systems To Take Better Notes

The Most Effective Strategy for Note-Taking For Video Instruction

While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to note-taking, the Cornell Method has proven to be highly effective for video instruction:

1. Divide Your Page

Draw a vertical line about 2.5 inches from the left edge of your paper. This creates a narrow column on the left and a wider space on the right.

2. Take Notes

During the video, use the larger section on the right to capture main ideas, key points, and details.

3. Create Keywords

In the left column, write concise keywords or questions that summarize the content on the right side.

4. Review and Recap

After the video, use the left column to review the material. Cover the right side and attempt to recall the main points using your keywords.

In conclusion, note-taking remains a vital skill even in the era of video instruction. Whether you prefer real-time notes, post-viewing summaries, or a combination of both, experimenting with various approaches will help you find the most effective method for your learning style.

The Cornell Method and digital note-taking on an iPad offer structured and dynamic ways to enhance your understanding and retention. By applying these strategies, you’ll unlock the full potential of video instruction and elevate your learning experience to new heights.

Best Note-Taking Strategies When Watching Videos

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