Tip of the Week

April 7, 2014

The “two-column” approach to note-taking

Note-taking is often challenging for students who struggle with executive function. One of the best ways for students to overcome this difficulty and take useful notes is via a two-column approach. This technique helps students listen for and recognize the difference between main ideas and details. In the left hand column of her notes page, your child should record the “key points” (main ideas). On the right hand column of the page, she should record supporting details. It may take some practice distinguishing between main ideas and details, but once learned, this method provides an organized and systematic approach for taking notes, and presents an excellent format for studying.