You have an assessment due in a few minutes. An assessment that would determine whether you pass or fail a course or progress to a higher level. Or, perhaps you are missing that one final statement to be the cherry on top of a well written dissertation which would distinguish a distinction from a merit. There is great pressure for perfection in that last moment, and the document with the necessary information cannot be found. This is a daunting realisation for many undergoing studies at any level, be it secondary or tertiary level, and well organised notes can help to ease the burden and unnecessary stress associated with completing these tasks. You might therefore find it useful to consider the following three points to organise your notes for improved efficiency and good outcomes.
1. Separate work from personal docs
You can start to organise your notes by distinguishing between your personal information, documents, leisure and relaxation, from any work or study-related documents. This will not only make it easier to navigate and find information on demand, but will also help you to avoid mistakenly sharing personal information. You can do this by grouping files into appropriately named folders on your personal computer, laptop or hard copy files. Further to this, files can be grouped into sub-folders by different categories based on similarity as listed in the points that follow.
2. Group files according to modules
During formal education, you will undertake multiple modules or subjects, and mixing notes for the different areas can cause confusion when revision is needed or assessments are due. To avoid this confusion, as previously mentioned, sub-folders can be created to further organise your documents or files. One way to do this is by grouping study files and notes according to the modules they relate to. For example, any handout, video, audio recording, photo or note related to a module called “Notes 101” can be placed in a folder specifically for contents of that module. Unlimited numbers of folders can be created to accommodate the information for the various subjects or modules and may be subdivided according to topics.
3. Group according to topics
Specific topics within a module may be covered across multiple sessions, and it may be worthwhile to group the notes for the different sessions within one folder or to combine it into one document. Whatever the decision, grouping notes according to the topics they cover might be handy and easier to locate when needed. Topics might also overlap for different modules and may be grouped or combined to allow for a more overarching understanding of the subject. However, if overlapping topics for different modules are grouped into one location, be sure to highlight where one module ends and another begins.
These three simple tips can help you organise your notes and files, making it easier to locate necessary information during regular revision periods or in dire times when preparing for an exam or assessment. So, be sure to consider these and be well on your name to managing your notes efficiently.