Effective note taking

Note taking is an important skill for a journalist, and yet is often not taught on journalism courses.  It seems like a simple task, but the reality is that unless you put some serious thought into it, you may end up with a chaotic notebook full of illegible scrawl and cryptic symbols.  And that’s no good with a deadline looming.  Effective note taking makes your job much quicker and easier, and your stories more accurate.
Here are some tips for effective note taking:

A   There are times when a tape recorder is a valuable tool, for example if you’re going to need a transcript of the interview, but you should always back it up with handwritten notes.  Tape recorders can and do fail.  A set of clear, organised notes won’t let you down.

B   A notebook ruled in columns means you need less time to move from the end of a line to the beginning of the next.  The right kind of pen won’t smudge, and will allow you to write faster.  Different coloured inks can help distinguish between speakers.

C   Learn shorthand or speedwriting, or invent your own system.  Identify the words you use most and abbreviate them.  Use a consistent system of symbols to identify important stuff, great quotes, things that need clarifying etc.

D   Use the same notebook for your initial research, your interview notes and any further information you may need.  Staple business cards into your notebook.

E   Make sure you have the correct spelling of names and places.  Double-check phone numbers and dates of birth.  This can be a good way to start an interview, and ensures that you have all the information you need about the interviewee right from the start.

F   Draw a plan of the room or scene.  Be observant, and note down what you can see.  What is revealed about the interviewee’s lifestyle or personality?  These details will add colour to your story.

G   Don’t try to write everything down.  Distinguish between what can be paraphrased, and what you will want to quote.  Make sure you’re really aware of what the person is saying.   Don’t write down points that are irrelevant to your story.

H   If the person is speaking too quickly, ask them to slow down or repeat what they’ve said.  Give yourself time to digest what’s been said by asking an unimportant question.  Make sure that you control the pace of the interview.

I   They are your record of what was said.  Long after the story is published, they may still be important.  Take legal advice on how long to keep them.