To take literature notes while reading a book:
- Quickly skim the book/book section first without taking notes. This gives you an idea of how the book is structured, what potentially interesting chapters / ideas you want to read, etc.
- Actually read the book:
- Read with questions about the topic / book in mind.
- Literature notes are supposed to be temporary (just like fleeting notes), so be as brief as possible.
- Give true account of the content—record relevant claims even if they might be against your belief.
- Make an effort to relate what’s discussed to unmentioned ideas. Ask more questions. Compare.
- Note-taking checks your understanding of the text. So take good notes and don’t fool yourself.
- Convert them into permanent notes.