When you write your notes in your own words, you really need to have an understanding of what you’re about to write. When you try to externalize your thoughts, you’ll notice it’s quite hard, if you do not grasp the gist of the thought, it’s even harder.
When you write on paper, you take ‘longer’ and cannot undo. This will make you pause and really try to understand. Doubly so when there is a time limit, eg a lecture.
You’ll notice gaps in your understanding, this is the same principle of the Feynman Technique.
Be truthful to the source
Whilst you’re still writing down your thoughts, try to be as complete and truthful as possible. Also when you’re trying to distil the thoughts from an author.
If you also write in your own words, you wont outsource your thinking.
Reference
Ahrens, Sönke. How to Take Smart Notes: One Simple Technique to Boost Writing, Learning and Thinking. 2nd edition, Revised and Expanded edition, Sönke Ahrens, 2022.
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Highlights of How to take smart notes
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