Taking Meaningful Notes

Define

You could share the following statement by Elder David A. Bednar, who said:

Writing down what we learn, think, and feel as we study the scriptures is another form of pondering and a powerful invitation to the Holy Ghost for continuing instruction. (David A. Bednar, “Because We Have Them before Our Eyes,” New Era, Apr. 2006, 6; see also Moses 6:5)

Explain that taking meaningful notes can include recording personal thoughts, impressions, testimony, questions, truths, and ways to apply gospel teachings. We can record notes on a paper or in a digital notebook. We can also write them in the margins of paper scriptures or add notes to digital scriptures (see the skill training “Adding Notes to Scriptures”). Taking meaningful notes can help us focus as we study. It can preserve and help us remember what we learn, and it can lead to further revelation.

Model

Consider sharing notes you made as you prepared to teach this week. Or you could invite a few students to share notes they have made in a notebook or in their scriptures. Invite them to share how note-taking has enhanced their gospel study.

You might briefly model how to use the Notebooks feature in Gospel Library. Or you could invite students who use that feature to demonstrate in small groups how to access notebooks and create a new notebook.

Note: You can find additional resources and tips in the “Help” section of the Gospel Library app, including “Gospel Library User Guide (iOS)” and “Gospel Library User Guide (Android).”

Practice

Give students time to study a passage from this week’s scripture reading or from the list of additional scripture passages suggested below. Encourage students to:

• Pause occasionally.

• Pray that the Spirit will help them understand the scriptures and apply truths they are learning.

• Record notes of things they learn, think, and feel (in a paper journal or notebook, their scriptures, or Gospel Library).

After sufficient time, invite a few students who feel comfortable to share their experience.

Additional passages for practice:

• Psalm 146:1–2, 5–8. Students could record reasons they have to praise Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ. They could also record personal praises to (or their appreciation for) Them.

• Luke 22:39–44 and Doctrine and Covenants 19:16–19. Students could record their thoughts and feelings about Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice.

• 1 Nephi 2:18–20. Students could record ways they or those they know have experienced the Lord’s tender mercies.

• Doctrine and Covenants 50:17–22. Students could record what it means to them to learn by the Spirit. They could also record ways they can invite the Spirit to teach them truth.

Invite and Follow Up

Encourage students to take meaningful notes as they study the gospel. Remember to follow up and allow time when you meet again for students to share their experiences with note-taking. Look for ways to invite students to record what they are learning, thinking, and feeling as they study the scriptures with you in class.