toeflTOEFL preparation courseListeningListeningabout 15 min

Note-taking that works

Note-taking that works for TOEFL listening: structure, abbreviations, and what to write versus what to skip.

In this lesson you will

Learn

Write key words, not sentences. Capture: topic, main points, examples (briefly), contrasts, opinions and conclusions.

Structure: main points at the left margin; examples indented beneath. Use a line between sections.

Symbols: → (leads to), ↑ ↓ (increase/decrease), = (is/means), ≠ (different), ∵ (because), ∴ (so), e.g., vs, w/ (with), b/c (because).

Don’t over-write. If you’re writing, you may miss the next point. Listen for signposts and note the structure.

desertif. = dry land → desert causes: drought (nat.), overgrazing (human) e.g. Sahel reversible ∵ protect trees, rotate grazing
Opinion: prof: ‘encouraging’ → positive
Contrast: nat. vs human

abbreviation

a short form

indent

start further from the margin

capture

record

over-write

write too much

margin

the edge of the page

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Notes should be…

Listen to (or read aloud) a short academic talk, take notes, then explain it from your notes in 45 seconds.

Recording isn’t available in this browser. You can still practise: say your answer aloud, then type what you said.

Transcript (type what you said)

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“∵” means…