Take Notes

As you read, learn and think about your topic, type notes (just a few words) into the appropriate spot in your mind map. For EACH SOURCE, do the following 3 steps.

When you write your paper and give your speech, you will need to know WHERE you got all the interesting information that you present. You should "note the source" FIRST, before taking any notes.

After adding the source properly to your map, do one more thing before taking notes: label the source, i.e. put an identifying number (1, 2, 3) or letter (A, B, C) at the end of the source name.

As you find interesting facts in the things you read, add them to your mind map. Try to use as few words as possible; don't make it long and hard to read... it's just notes!

Try to make good decisions about where to put the ideas, facts, etc. that you find. Use the document to "think." You can move the bubbles as needed whenever you change your mind either about an argument or the information you are using to support the argument.

Here are three things that you can do that make the computer a powerful way to take notes. Try all three!

1. As you work, you may want to "focus" your outline or map by hiding subtopics (sub-symbols). It can help your thinking to keep the categories "out" (showing), especially if you start to gather lots of information.

• How to hide/show subtopics in Outline View.
• How to hide/show sub-symbols in Diagram View.

2. The "notes" feature (seen above) is a good place to paste good quotes that you find.

• How to add "notes" in Outline View (and hide/show them).
• How to add "notes" in Diagram View (and hide/show them).

3. Lastly, feel free to move bits of information any time.

• How to move topics/subtopics in Outline View.
• How to move symbols in Diagram View.

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Back to Process
On to Organize Notes