Is it easier to take notes and read the book at the same time or after reading? (literature)?

Question

I need to list major characters, how they are important, many themes, plot-line (exposition,rising action,climax,falling action, and resolution), how the historical period affects the characters and make quotes with analyses.

the books are classical
it's summer homework and I'm having trouble starting off.

Answer 1

I did that last year for Scarlet Letter and their Eyes were Watching God



This year I'm doing it for Far from the Madding Crowd. My teacher called it a dialectical journal.



What was easiest for me with Scarlet Letter (I also did this with Their Eyes, but that book was much more fast paced, so it was easier) was to keep a composition notebook (or any paper) near you, with pen, and I'd just jot down the page number and the first few words of a quote that was interesting. I'd also usually put down a few (brief) thoughts on it's significance. Sticky notes could also be useful.



Every 40-60 pages or so, I'd sit down on my computer (I don't know if your assignment can be typed or not) and I'd type all the quotes I highlighted, and then typed my thoughts freestyle. Even if your assignment must be hand written, I'd type my ideas anyways, because they come out much faster and smoother. Then you can go back and edit them. The important thing is that you have the essence of what you want to say.





Honestly, starting off is the hardest part, especially with the more archaic classical novels. You just have to force yourself to sit down and get over the first chapter (or at least 10 pages). This, you have to find out how to do on your own. But once you get started, and into the habit of recording brief snippets of quotes and your own personal thoughts, you get much more involved in your reading, and it should become more interesting and easier. Aim to take note of something every few pages, even if they are tiny notes, to keep the flow going, or you might get into the habit of not doing it at all.



The point is to get close and personal with your novel, and "ask" it questions.

Answer 2

Ah, I have to do this all the time for my university classes.



I find it easier taking notes whilst reading.



I usually mark the page that has the information I need - like certain details for each subject I need to write about.

I also underline - with a pencil - sentences that I find is useful for my essay AND write a quick note on the side to express my thoughts at the time.



If you end up reading the whole book and then taking notes afterwards - you'll lose all your train of thoughts that you had at the time.



Its easier to take notes whilst reading.

I recommended it.



Good luck.

Answer 3

I'd recommend getting your own copy and writing directly in the book. Utilize margins, blank pages, anything really. Make up your own system (ex. underlining means characterization, stars show themes, circle literary devices, mark plot development in the margins, brackets for important quotations...)



Also, whether directly in the book or not, make your own title for each chapter AFTER you finish reading the chapter. As long as you remember WHY you chose that title, you'll be more apt to remember what the chapter was about, and therefore able to "connect the literary dots" better.



If you can't buy the book, use sticky notes. Heck, use sticky notes anyway - they're awesome.



By combining your notes with the physical book you'll be more likely to remember it, and you'll save yourself time later when your looking for a specific page in order to write down a quote or explain something more clearly.

Answer 4

I like using those really small sticky notes, the one that are about 1cm by 2cm. They work wonders for sticking on a page, and then referring back to it later. Just a word of caution. Buy the good quality ones, for I have bought the cheaper ones and they usually stick to the pages and rip text off. Also, under lining with pencil or highlighting could be a good way to help you find exactly what you need when reviewing the book.

Answer 5

I find it easier to take notes and read at the same time. When putting notes off until the end, there's no doubt you will miss at least a few things because you don't have the exact information right there in front of you. I suppose it really depends on taste, but I prefer to read and take notes simultaneously.

Answer 6

Take notes while you are reading. Keeping the questions in mind, book mark passages where good quotes can be found. Answer questions after you finished reading.

Answer 7

I always find it easier to make notes as I'm reading, then come back to them later and cross out anything that isn't important. I find it easier than reading the entire book and trying to remember everything afterwards.

Answer 8

i would read the book and pay close attention to details and the right after start on the notes after with the book right next to you so you can look up stuff if you have to. also if its your own copy and you dont really care about it you can highlight important stuff while reading and then tab the page its on.

Answer 9

I definitely find it easier making notes as you read.

Trying to remember all the small details when you're done reading is hard and easy to get wrong.

Answer 10

i like to read the whole book and only mark something if it jumps out and me. after that i skim each chapter for key story elements and mark them