How do you take notes?

Pros and Cons of Handwritten vs. Computer Note taking

By Tracey Romo B

Have you ever wondered if taking notes by longhand or on the computer helps you study or remember more? Studies have shown that writing notes by hand helps you remember material better than typing on your computer. There are strengths and weaknesses in both writing and typing. Here’s a breakdown so you can decide what’s best for you.
Handwritten:
Pro:  

• Students who handwrite their notes retain more information than a computer.
  
• Easier to sketch or draw diagrams.
  
• Highlighting words while the lecture is happening or key words.  
  
• Factual learning.
  

• Better word recognition.
  
• More room for notes on the side of the paper.
  

Con:

• Paper can get wet or destroyed.
  
• Can’t look up a key term when writing on paper.
  
• More difficult to transcribe all the words as the speaker or lecture goes on.
  
• Sore hands and pencil and pen marks all over hands.
  

Computer:
Pro:  

• You can search a topic that you don’t understand while taking notes.
  
• Faster notes and more notes space to type freely.
  
• You can multi-task while taking your notes.
  
• Typing is much faster than writing.
  
• Utilizing Google Docs allows you to share notes with classmates.
  

Con:

• Using a computer to take notes can lead to distraction.
  
• Multi-tasking does not allow you to give your full attention to the speaker.
  
• Surfing the web while talking notes.
  
• Files get deleted.
  
• Computer battery can die while taking notes.​
  

NPR has two hypotheses about taking notes as a student. The first one, the encoding hypothesis, states that where the process occurs improves learning and retention. The second theory, called external storage hypothesis, states that you learn by looking back at all your notes, sharing notes and learning from fellow note takers.
Even though NPR tells us to “put away our laptops,” the best method is always dependant on the students and how they prefer taking notes.
After reading this article, what do you think is a better way to take notes?