How do you take notes, when studying for a certification?

Devilsbane

mattrgee wrote: »

Watch the CBT Nuggets Series from beginning to end without taking any notes. I use this as an oppotunity to sit and listen about the technology.

I've tried this method before but I find that I often don't make it back for the second viewing. Test day starts to close in and I run out of time and only go back to review the more difficult videos. Which is probably just as well since if the material is easy I shouldn't need to waste my time watching it again.

earweed

I only watch videos once usually. I tend to read (at least some sections and chapters) twice. I sometimes use one-note but have gotten away from that as I found I was doing a lot of copy paste when readinf technet articles or ebooks on 24x7. If I take notes it is by hand and after I've gone through the whole chapter and re-reading it.

subl1m1nal

Generally, my studying goes like this:

-Check the exam objectives. Judge any areas I think I'm weak at.
-Take an initial practice exam. This will let me know my strengths and weaknesses.
-Read through a chapter, end of chapter practice exam, labs. (I'm in MS Press books). Generally, this is enough for me.
-After all the chapters are knocked out, I do test prep. As many practice exams as possible. Restudy any questionable areas. Use another source if needed. Once I feel comfortable with all the topics, I'll schedule the exam for a week or 2 out, giving myself time to polish up on anything.

I don't take notes. They usually slow me down. The end of chapter review will keep the main points fresh in my mind. I'm a hands on guy. If I can't do it in practice, I don't know it.