How to Take Notes on a Laptop vs by Hand (Which Is Better?)

TL;DR

Research shows handwritten notes lead to better retention because you're forced to summarize in your own words. Typed notes are faster but often become mindless transcription. Best approach: handwrite during class for retention, then type up and organize your notes later for review.

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The Research Is Clear (But Complicated)

A famous Princeton/UCLA study found that students who took notes by hand performed better on conceptual test questions than students who typed. Why?

Handwriting is slower — which sounds like a disadvantage, but it forces you to:

• Listen and process information before writing
• Summarize in your own words
• Select what's most important

Typing is faster — which leads to:

• Verbatim transcription (writing everything without processing)
• Less engagement with the material
• More complete notes (but less understood content)

When to Handwrite

• Conceptual lectures where understanding matters more than details
• Math and science (formulas, diagrams, and equations are easier by hand)
• Small classes where the pace is manageable
• When you're easily distracted (no browser temptation with a notebook)

When to Type

• Fast-paced lectures where you need to capture lots of information
• Classes with lots of text-heavy content (law, political science)
• When you need searchable notes for exam prep
• When accessibility requires it (typing may be easier for some students)

The Hybrid Approach (Best of Both)

1. During class: Handwrite notes using the Cornell method or simple outlining
2. Within 24 hours: Type up your notes, filling in gaps and organizing
3. Before the exam: Review your typed notes, quiz yourself on key concepts

This gives you the retention benefits of handwriting AND the organization benefits of digital notes.

Note-Taking Methods Worth Trying

Cornell Method

Divide your page into three sections:

• Right column (largest): Class notes
• Left column (narrow): Key questions and terms
• Bottom section: Summary of the lecture in 2-3 sentences

Outline Method

• Main topic (I, II, III...)
  • Subtopic (A, B, C...)
    • Details (1, 2, 3...)

Mind Mapping

• Central concept in the middle
• Branch out with related ideas
• Great for visual learners and brainstorming-style lectures

Best Digital Note-Taking Tools

• Notion: Flexible, powerful, free for students
• OneNote: Great organization, handwriting support on tablets
• Google Docs: Simple, shareable, accessible anywhere
• GoodNotes / Notability (iPad): Handwrite with the benefits of digital (searchable handwriting, easy organization)

Let Gradily Help You Study From Your Notes

Once you have great notes, Gradily helps you turn them into study materials, essay drafts, and exam prep resources.

[Try Gradily for Free →]

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The best note-taking method is the one you'll actually review later. Experiment with both formats, find what works for YOUR brain, and stick with it. ✏️💻