1. Jotted Notes
It is nearly impossible to take good notes in the field. Even a known observer in a public setting looks strange when furiously writing. More important, when she looks down and writes she cannot see and hear what is happening. The attention given to note writing is taken from field observation where it belongs. The specific setting determines whether she can take any note in the field. She may be able to write, and members may expect it, or she may have to be secretive (go to rest room)
Jotted notes are written in the field. They are short, temporary memory triggers such as words, phrases, or drawings taken inconspicuously, often scribbled on any convenient item. They are incorporated into direct observation notes but are never substituted for them.