Before you start to read, think carefully. Why are you reading? What are the specific reasons for taking notes?

For example:

• Are you reading for background information? If so, concentrate on general background material.
• Are you reading for detail, looking for examples, or supporting evidence? If so, make sure you know what you need.

Try not to waste valuable study time:

• Avoid collecting bits of information that are not directly relevant to your written work.
• Avoid excessive highlighting of text. Highlighting or underlining text means that you will need to re-read it at a later date. Consider what you are going to do with the text you highlight - you may find it useful to add notes or comments next to it.