Write the date and course title at the top of a blank page.
Draw a vertical line down the page to create two columns. Divide the page so 1/4 of the page is on the left and 3/4 is on the right.
Label the left column "Topic." Label the right column "Details."
Take notes as usual, but use the left column for big ideas and the right column for information that pertains to each idea. For example, you would write "Causes of the Civil War" on the left. You would list the causes given by your teacher or your book on the right.
Skip a space between topics to keep your two-column notes organized.