When I first started out at college, I tried everything: notes on my computer, notes typed after class, printing the notes that my professor had already put online and then writing on them in class, and anything else I could think of. I just kept coming back to a simple pen, paper and highlighter combination. Technology is supposed to be helpful in the classroom, but I’ve found that it tends to get in the way. When you’re behind a computer screen, you don’t feel like you’re really engaging with the class. And constant threat of WiFi and solitaire means you probably won’t get as much done as you want to.

If you do decide to go the digital route, text files are a nice, simple way to do it. I’ve also found that the notebook page in Office for Mac is a good tool. Neither of these let you write notes in the margins of your notes, which is why I don’t use them.

Make sure to read some hints on taking good notes too, because your notes are only as good as their content. My favorite tips are: don’t try to write down everything your professor says; don’t try to write down everything on the powerpoint (put it in your own words); put things in a meaningful hierarchical structure; don’t be afraid to draw graphs; and re-read your notes (you’d be surprised how many people just take notes and never look at them again). A google search for taking good notes returns a bunch of tips that are helpful for new university students.