Using Linear Notes and Spider Diagrams
In order to take notes, there are two forms of note-taking, which are useful for different things. As linear notes are written down a page with headings and subheadings, they need plenty of room for detail. On the other hand, spider diagrams (spidergrams) are on one page and are good for showing structure and organising your ideas. They are good for making connections clear and visual and they are also called mindmaps.
LINEAR NOTES
  • use headings for main ideas and concepts,
  • use subheadings for points within those ideas,
  • stick to one point per line,
  • use numbering to keep yourself organised,
  • leave plenty of space for adding detail and for easy reading.
 
SPIDER DIAGRAMS
  • use whole side of paper,
  • put the subject in the centre,
  • use one branch for main point – radiating outwards,
  • add smaller branches for detail and example,
  • summarise just enough to remind you of point.
 
Some students do not like spidergram note-taking, although it has a number of pros, for example, they keep notes on one page, show the main points at glance and keep points grouped together. They clearly show the gaps which need more research.