Listening For Main Ideas
Sometimes it's hard to figure out what to write down during a lecture. Here are a few tips to help you listen for main ideas.
Write it down when the professor:
- Says it's important or repeats the information
- Writes information on the board or overhead
- Breaks down material into steps (any information important enough to explain thoroughly is important enough to record in your notes)
- Gives contrasts or pros and cons
- Changes vocal tone or volume--this often indicates excitement; information that a professor is excited about often ends up on tests
Signal words and phrases may also indicate a professor is saying something you should remember. Some signal words and phrases are:
