Each student must find a notetaking format that works for him. The Cornell System is a popular system of notetaking organization that is based on dividing the notebook page into two columns. Draw a line down your page 2.5 in. from the left edge -- this left-hand column is your cue column. Leave this column blank during class, and use only the larger right-hand column to take notes during lecture. Leave a space at the bottom of the page to summarize the day's lecture. After class, fill in the cue column with questions or key phrases that can be answered or completed using the information on the right. When you return to your notes to study, you can cover up the right-hand column and use just the questions on the left to review the information. Should you find the Cornell layout does not work for you, find a system of organization that does.
Be as detailed as possible in your notetaking. It's likely that you cannot keep up verbatim with your instructor, so train yourself to key into transitional words. If something leads to something else, making note of that transition will help you connect the different ideas covered in lecture later. Listen for clues from your instructor on what is important, what to remember or what might be on the exam. Rigorously taking notes throughout class will also keep you focused and awake, and you'll be less likely to have questions about gaps in your own explanation of concepts later. If you have a teacher who is particularly difficult to keep pace with, consider using a small recorder during class to record the lecture, which will allow you to review any areas you missed later.
The text-messaging generation of the 21st century is probably familiar with the style of abbreviations made by removing any extra vowels from words. Utilize this technique, as well as symbols like arrows and equal signs, to accelerate your notetaking. As you take notes in class, you will find your own system of abbreviations. It doesn't matter if anyone else can follow your notes as long as you can, so find a system that works best for you.
Passively rereading your notes is a good idea after class, but rewriting them is better. In rewriting your notes, you can take time to fill in any areas that are unclear. Always rewrite your notes as soon as possible after class because your memory of what was discussed will fade quickly. When you rewrite your notes, ask yourself questions about them. Write your questions in a different color so you remember to ask your instructor or look up the answers in your textbook. Do not just copy your notes exactly when rewriting them. Write them out more completely and with more structure, making them more legible and filling in gaps that you may not be able to remember later.