To take notes or not to take notes?

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To take notes or not to take notes?

by cvj0873 » Thu Oct 11, 2012 10:47 am
Hi!

I'm more than 2-months into my GMAT preparation and I've barely covered half the materials. I use the MGMAT Strategy Guides FOURTH ed., the OG 13 ed., and also the guidelines from Beat the GMAT in 60 days. Although I understand the topics that I've covered with clarity, I'm just too darn slow! And I think it's due to me taking copious notes from the MGMAT Guides. However, the reason I do so is because I understand it better and also as I approach the end of my preparation, I can always look back on my notes for references.

Are there any suggestions for me to go about this? Should I continue taking notes? Are there methods to read and be able to store what I've learnt in my head permanently... or at least till after getting my 700 score? =D

Thank you!
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by Kasia@EconomistGMAT » Thu Oct 11, 2012 10:55 am
Taking notes can be really time-consuming but as you have stated, it is the best way to be able to come back later to the material that you have already covered. So I would advise you to continue and maybe only try to take notes in a more concise way and limit yourself to the most vital parts of lessons.
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by XLogic » Sat Oct 13, 2012 1:58 am
cvj0873 wrote: Are there any suggestions for me to go about this? Should I continue taking notes? Are there methods to read and be able to store what I've learnt in my head permanently... or at least till after getting my 700 score? =D

Thank you!
Continue doing whatever makes you understand what you are reading. Even when it comes to RC you'll have to figure out how much note taking to do. But I think you should stick to what you know, then refine as you progress.

For example, over a 3 week period you could slowly increase your pace while gradually decreasing the amount of notes you take. You can always slow down again if you notice that comprehension is also going down.
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by Brent@GMATPrepNow » Sat Oct 13, 2012 5:58 am
Don't rush your preparation.
Regarding the 60-Day Study Guide: this is a dense study plan with a lot of learning activities. Don't worry if it takes you longer than 60 days to complete it.

Cheers,
Brent
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