Using Abbreviations

To be able to take notes quicker, it helps if you can use a shorthand way of writing things down. There are many familiar abbreviations that can be used. The Open University has produced a list, which is included below. 

Take a look at it got familiarise yourself with the most common abbreviations. 

You can also adopt your own set of familiar abbreviations. For example, you can shorten frequently used words, or use just the first few letters of a word.
Here are some examples of abbreviation techniques:

1. Use the first few letters of a word

Make sure you use enough letters to remember what the abbreviation stands for and to prevent confusion between other words with the same first letters.

2. Use initials for phrases

If you've already mentioned the same words at the beginning of your notes, the next time you write them you can just use the initials. For example: LG for 'local government'; NG for 'national government'

3. Remove all (or most of) the vowels from the word

Use the key consonants together. For example: mngmt for ‘management’ or mkt for ‘market’ (and mkting for ‘marketing’)

Watch the following video for some tips on how to use abbreviations and shorthand when taking notes.