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Welcome to a game-changing approach to study notes that will take you from total overwhelm to calm control. If you've ever felt buried under a mountain of information, unsure what's important or what you can trust, you're not alone. The secret to clarity lies in one simple skill: learning to separate facts from interpretations and values in everything you read and write.
Not all statements are equal. Some report what happened, some interpret it, and some say what's good or bad. When you label which type you're reading or writing, you'll immediately see where you need evidence—and where you're simply expressing a preference or opinion.
Understanding the Three Types of Statements
Let's break down the foundation of effective note-taking. There are three distinct types of statements you'll encounter in your studies:
- Facts can be checked against evidence. They report what happened, what exists, or what can be measured.
- Interpretations suggest what the facts might mean. They offer explanations or connections between pieces of information.
- Value judgements say what is better or worse. They express preferences, opinions, or ethical positions.
Here's the tricky part: words with emotional colouring can make a judgement feel like a fact. If a claim reads like a product advert—'the best ever!'—it's probably a value judgement waving pom-poms. Always look closely at the plain meaning before the feelings it tries to stir.
How to Apply This System to Your Study Notes
This is where the transformation happens. In your notes, tag each key sentence as Fact, Interpretation, or Value. You can use different coloured highlighters, symbols, or labels—whatever works for your brain.
For facts, your next step is clear: look for reputable, peer-reviewed sources and current information to verify them. For interpretations and values, make sure the key terms are defined and the reasoning is clear so you (and your readers or examiners) can decide whether you agree.
This tiny habit keeps your thinking tidy. You'll know when to verify, when to compare explanations, and when to disagree respectfully because the difference is about values, not about whether something actually happened.
Why This Simple System Transforms Your Learning
When you separate facts from interpretations and values, several things happen at once. First, you become a more critical reader. You'll spot when an author is trying to persuade you rather than inform you. Second, your own writing becomes stronger and more credible because you're backing up claims with evidence and being transparent about your interpretations.
Most importantly, you'll feel more confident in your studies. Instead of drowning in information, you'll have a clear framework for organising what you read and write. This clarity reduces stress and helps you prepare more effectively for essays and exams.
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