How I Write Notes

Seeing as I've had some lecturers and fellow students tell me that they like the way I take notes, I thought I'd show you guys.

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The three elements of my setup are a 2018 iPad, the Apple Pencil and the Notability app. On the expensive side, but I’d been looking into getting an iPad for a good while anyway. I can safely say it’s been worth the investment.

I first got the idea to do this from watching Ali Abdaal on YouTube. He's a student doctor in the UK and has a really good video on the topic of using Notability for making notes.

I also wanted to cut down on waste and how much I’d be carrying as I’ve spent the past year getting to university via a one hour train commute. This option is much lighter than having to carry folders and notebooks everyday.

When it comes to my notes, the system is pretty simple. I make a new page in whichever folder the topic is under (I use folders based on the assignment we are being taught for).

I select a grid and blue paper. My university uses blue paper for printing and I’ve found it less harsh on the eye. I’ll write out a title and underline it. I then write out the important parts of my lectures. I don’t write in full sentences unless I have to for it to make sense later.

I’ll use different colours if I need something to stand out (like an example) although I don’t use a colour code. I’ve found that for nursing, colour codes aren’t too useful. Instead, I’ll make flashcards of anything in particular (illnesses, their symptoms, medication...).

I’ll draw little stars if I want something to really stand out. I also draw little icons if it’ll help me something better. The app also allows you to import an image and annotate it, which is a lifesaver for anatomy and physiology!

I’ve been asked for notes off people quite a few times this year, luckily this system is brilliant for it. All I have to do is click share and send them an email. Much better than having to root out the notes, get a good photo or scan it.

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If you have any questions please feel free to ask!