Every IB student eventually asks:
"What's the best way to take notes?"
The truth?
There is no single best method — but there is a best method for your learning style.
Here's a breakdown to help you decide.
📝 1. Paper Notes — Best for Memory
Pen-and-paper encourages slower, deeper thinking.
Best for:
- Language A
- TOK journals
- Concept summaries
- Brainstorming EE topics
Downside:
Hard to search and organize large amounts of content.
💻 2. Laptop Notes — Best for Speed & Volume
Typing lets you capture lots of information quickly.
Best for:
- Biology & Chemistry content
- Econ case studies
- Research notes for the EE
- Meeting deadlines
Downside:
People often copy too much — low processing.
✏️ 3. iPad Notes — Best Hybrid
Apps like Notability or GoodNotes combine handwriting with digital organization.
Best for:
- Math worked solutions
- Annotating diagrams
- Mind maps
- Combining images + handwriting
Downside:
Requires discipline not to get distracted.
🧠 How to Choose
Pick based on task, not preference:
| Task | Best Method |
| --- | --- |
| Memorizing | Paper |
| Revising large units | Laptop |
| Math/Sciences | iPad |
| EE research | Laptop |
| TOK brainstorming | Paper/iPad |
| Annotating articles | iPad |
| Past paper corrections | iPad/Laptop |
Hybrid systems work best — mix depending on subject needs.
📲 Organize your notes & revision in StudyIB
💬 Share your setup with IB students on Discord