Note-taking is a powerful tool for retaining knowledge, but it's not always effective if done in a mindless or automated way. Many people, including myself, have fallen into the trap of trying to save time by automating the note-taking process, only to realize that we didn't truly absorb the information.

Note-taking is a powerful tool for retaining knowledge, but it's not always effective if done in a mindless or automated way. Many people, including myself, have fallen into the trap of trying to save time by automating the note-taking process, only to realize that we didn't truly absorb the information.

When I first started using note-taking apps like Glasp, my intention was to streamline the process and make it more efficient. I thought that by automating as much as possible, I could save myself a ton of time. However, I quickly realized that this approach was not yielding the results I wanted.

I found that when I relied on automation, I was simply going through the motions of taking notes without truly engaging with the material. It was as if I was just going through the motions, without really allowing the information to sink in. I would highlight passages, copy and paste quotes, and even use AI algorithms to summarize the content for me. But at the end of the day, I couldn't recall the key points or connect the concepts in a meaningful way.

It was only when I took a step back and started culling, curating, and typing in my notes manually that I began to truly absorb the information. This more deliberate approach forced me to actively engage with the material, to think critically about what I was reading, and to make connections between different ideas.

So, how can we retain more of every book we read? Here are seven ways to improve our note-taking process and enhance our knowledge retention:

• 1. Be intentional: Before you start reading, set a clear intention for what you hope to gain from the book. What specific knowledge or insights are you looking for? By setting this intention, you can approach the book with a focused mindset and actively seek out the information you need.

• 2. Take handwritten notes: While digital note-taking has its benefits, there is something powerful about the act of physically writing things down. Research has shown that writing by hand helps improve memory and comprehension. So, consider using pen and paper to take notes while reading. This tactile experience can enhance your connection to the material and aid in retention.

• 3. Engage with the content: As you read, don't just passively consume the information. Instead, actively engage with the material by asking questions, making connections, and challenging your own assumptions. This level of engagement can help you internalize the information and make it more meaningful to you.

• 4. Summarize in your own words: Rather than relying on AI algorithms or copying and pasting quotes, take the time to summarize the key points in your own words. This forces you to process the information and articulate it in a way that makes sense to you. By summarizing in your own words, you are more likely to remember and understand the content.

• 5. Create a visual representation: If you're a visual learner, consider creating a visual representation of the key concepts or ideas. This could be a mind map, a flowchart, or even a simple diagram. By visualizing the information, you can strengthen your understanding and recall.

• 6. Review and revisit your notes: Don't just take notes and forget about them. Set aside time to review and revisit your notes regularly. This can help reinforce your memory and solidify your understanding of the material. You may also discover new connections or insights upon revisiting your notes.

• 7. Teach or share what you've learned: One of the most effective ways to retain information is to teach it to someone else. Whether it's through writing a blog post, giving a presentation, or simply explaining the key concepts to a friend, teaching forces you to organize your thoughts and articulate the information clearly. This process deepens your understanding and strengthens your retention.

In conclusion, note-taking is a valuable tool for retaining knowledge, but it must be done in a deliberate and intentional way. By actively engaging with the material, taking handwritten notes, summarizing in your own words, creating visual representations, and regularly reviewing your notes, you can enhance your knowledge retention and truly absorb the information. So, the next time you pick up a book, remember to approach it with a mindful mindset and take notes that truly resonate with you.