Draw a vertical line on a notebook page, dividing the page in half.

Read the chapter or section. If the book is well organized than you may only need to skim the Chapter or section on this step.

On the left side write a brief summary of the information (dates vocabulary, etc.) and ideas (Theories, concepts, etc.) presented in the section or chapter.

Read the chapter or section again, this time more slowly. Use a highlighter to highlight the things you might need to know for a test. If you are borderline OCD like me than you may want to use different colored highlighters to highlight facts and concepts.

On the right side of the notebook page write down your interpretation of what the Author is trying to say and how it fits into the subject matter of the course in which you are enrolled.

The left side will be most helpful for tests and quizzes while the right side will help you when participating in class discussions.

I use the same basic system when I am doing research. Citation info, facts, quotes, and ideas that I might want to use on the left with my interpretation or how I might use what I found on the right. It works great and makes it easier for me when it comes time to start writing.

You can also do this type of note taking on Microsoft One Note if you have it.