Simple Note-Taking Hack Proven to Boost Memorization and Retention Instantly

Have you ever wondered why you can type notes forever and things still don’t seem to be sinking in? You might think it’s because the material is too hard…but have you ever considered that it might be the fact that typing out notes simply doesn’t help you that much?

This simple strategy will help you memorize your notes in way less time!

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Taking notes has two purposes. It is a chance for you to put material in your own words to help you grasp it. This makes a fantastic resource for future studying because it’s already written in your own voice. It is ALSO, however, a form of review because while you are actively writing the notes, you are reviewing the material. You heard/saw it once, and now you are going over it a second time by writing it down.

Objectively, there’s nothing wrong with typing your notes. It’s a great way to efficiently (and tidily) organize them for future study sessions. I’d highly recommend it somewhere along the line because it is the easiest way to make clear study notes that can be used in other ways.

When it comes to learning, however, EASY doesn’t necessarily mean FAST TRACK TO MEMORIZATION.

If typing is easy for you, it may not be the best process to help you learn. This is especially true for those kinetic learners in the crowd (kinetic learners are those who find physically doing something helpful in their learning process). If you are a fast typer, it’s entirely possible that the physical act of typing notes does very little to help you retain the information. The material is breezed over so quickly and it’s too passive of an activity.

Hand-printed notes will help speed up the memorization process

If you’re struggling with retention, try switching to taking hand-written/printed notes. You can then re-type those later if you want something clear to come back to in other ways. Taking notes by hand instead of typing slows the process down in a way that may increase retention, and it will be a more efficient use of your time in the long run.

Want More Study Tips?

If you’re still looking for tips to get you through homeschooling, check out the A+ Academics at Home book linked below. I was once a new home learner myself, and I TOTALLY get the struggles that come along with it. It was one of the best learning experiences of my life, though, and it completely changed the way I view education. I want to help you on this journey to discover the excitement that comes with learning something on your own!

A+ Academics at Home - Finding Success Through Distance Learning

If you want to keep reading, here are some other articles you might find interesting:

Who is Nadya Corscadden?

Nadya holds an MA in Musical Theatre and is no stranger to the home learning scene. Having spent a good chunk of her younger years in distance education (and opting for some correspondence electives at university), she has accumulated many tricks to help maintain focus and inspiration. She has a passion for independent learning and wants to help anyone and everyone find their stride in this atmosphere whether it’s homeschooling or simply studying for that next big test!

She is also a triple threat singer, dancer and actress….and can’t wait until stages are alive again!