 There are a lot of reasons why taking notes is important. Keeps you alert. Note-taking keeps your body active and involved and helps you avoid feelings of drowsiness or distraction. It is an active process that helps you focus. Engages your mind. Listening carefully and deciding what to include in notes keeps your mind actively involved with what you hear. It helps you engage with the material. Emphasizes and organizes information. As you take notes, you'll decide on and highlight the key ideas you hear, identifying the structure of a class presentation. You'll also be able to indicate the supporting points of a presentation, making study and understanding easier after class. Such organized notes also make it easier for you to link classroom learning to textbook readings. Creates a condensed record for study. It is impossible to remember everything you hear in class. A set of concise, well-organized notes from each class session gives you what you need for study, learning, and review after class. Make sure to take notes from lecture and your readings. Write them in your own words and write them by hand if possible. Make sure to review your notes as often as possible. Note-taking is an important part of the learning process, and having good notes can make a big difference.