Taking Notes in Math and Science Classes

You may have to modify your lecture note-taking techniques in math classes and in science classes that require problem solving. In such classes you will either be learning how to do a mathematical problem or you will be applying math to solve word problems such as those found in chemistry and physics classes. The biggest mistake most students make in taking notes in such classes is that when they write down the problems the professor puts on the board, they omit the verbal explanations that go with them. Here are six quick tips for taking notes in math and problem-solving science courses.

1. Get down what's on the board. Write out the basic steps and the examples. Be certain you understand the examples. Ask for clarification if you do not understand them because you will have to apply this information later when you work similar problems on your own.
2. Get down the explanation that goes with what's on the board, like "factor out the y." Write out a reason for each step of the problem as it was done on the board.
3. If your professor moves so fast you can't get both the board material and the explanation, leave large blank spaces in your notes. Then, as soon as possible after class (math students say twenty-four hours is too long to wait to go over math notes), write additional explanations for each step of a problem so you will be able to understand it when you study for exams. Number and list all the steps in each problem or process so you can understand and learn them quickly.
4. Be careful with symbols. Ones you use in other classes to separate points, such as the dash, turn into math symbols in math classes. The best way to change the subject and separate topics in math notes is to draw a line clear across the paper from one margin to the other.
5. Label math and science notes in the left-hand column and write summaries just as you would notes from any other class, or go over your notes with classmates. Then recite until you know them.
6. Students report that in some math and science classes they are able to copy examples and models on the board right into their textbooks. Less writing then needs to be done because the explanations are in the textbook itself. You will, of course, have to read the textbook assignment carefully before class to make this method work.

From Nancy V. Wood, College Reading and Study Skills, 5th ed. Harcourt Brace, 1996.