Making your own notes vs using given notes

Students often wonder whether they need to make their own notes or whether using notes given by a teacher or from a book is enough. Both have their place, and the best choice depends on the goal.

Advantages of making your own notes

Writing notes in your own words forces the brain to process the information, which builds deeper understanding. The note-making itself is part of the learning, not just the finished notes.

Drawbacks of making your own notes

It takes time, and if done shallowly (just copying), it gives little benefit. Some students also miss important information if their notes are incomplete.

Advantages of given notes

Ready-made notes from a teacher save time and ensure complete, accurate coverage. They’re useful as a reliable reference, especially for format and official terms.

Drawbacks of given notes

Passively reading someone else’s notes gives a false sense of understanding, but the information doesn’t stick. Notes never actively processed are rarely remembered well.

A combined approach

Many students benefit from using given notes as a base, then making their own condensed version for the hard topics. This combines accurate coverage with active processing.

For a format-heavy subject like this

For Prinsip Perakaunan, format notes (account and statement layouts) are useful as a given reference, while notes on how to solve a particular question type are better written yourself as you practise.

Make notes an active tool

Whether made yourself or given, notes are most useful when used actively (to practise, revise before the exam and track mistakes), not read once and filed away.

Match how you learn

Some students remember better by writing; others prefer to spend time on practice using given notes. Knowing how you learn helps you choose the approach that works best.

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FAQ

Is it better to make my own notes? For building understanding, yes: writing in your own words forces the brain to process the information. But it needs to be more than copying.

Can I just use given notes? They’re useful for coverage and format, but passive reading alone rarely sticks. Use them actively.

What’s the best approach? Often a combination: given notes as a base, plus your own condensed version for the hard topics.