Adjust your note taking style to the lecture - Ineffective listeners often attempt to jot down every detail from a lecture. They are often under the impression that a detailed outline equates to good notes. Those who utilize this strategy often get discouraged when they review their notes only to get confused by the breadth of information in their notes. On the other hand, effective listeners adapt their note-taking to the teaching styles of their teachers. They focus on central ideas and jot down details that expand on, or clarify, the central concepts of a lecture.