How to listen to lectures: Understand & remember with these strategies

Key Takeaways

• Choose Optimal Lecture Times: If possible, select lecture times when you are most alert, avoiding common periods of fatigue like 9 AM or 3 PM, as tiredness hinders listening and learning. 8:23
• Prepare Thoroughly in Advance: Pack healthy snacks and water the night before to stay hydrated and energized during class, and review lecture slides or assigned readings (at least titles and headings) to pre-prime your brain for the material. 12:03
• Prioritize Handwritten Notes Over Typing: Opt for handwritten notes as research indicates it promotes slower writing and better processing of information compared to typing, which often leads to simply transcribing without understanding. 11:10
• Develop an Efficient Note-Taking System: Use a consistent note-taking method (like Cornell or flowcharts) and create a system of abbreviations or symbols (e.g., "bc" for "because," three dots for "therefore") to save time and streamline your notes. 16:08
• Actively Listen for Key Cues: Pay close attention to repeated information, direct hints from professors about exam content ("This will be on the final exam"), and language cues (e.g., "Now let's move on," "The important thing is") that signal emphasis or topic changes. 17:22
• Address Missed Information Post-Lecture: If you miss a point, mark it in your notes with a symbol (e.g., a star) and ask a classmate during the break or the professor during office hours, rather than interrupting the lecture. 21:16
• Utilize Breaks for Movement and Networking: During breaks, get up and move around (e.g., stretch, walk stairs) to increase blood flow and alertness, and talk to attentive classmates to build a support network or form study groups. 23:51
• Review and Follow Up After Class: Immediately after the lecture, review your notes and any assigned readings while the material is fresh, and schedule dedicated office hours with your professor for any lingering questions. 25:12