[b_emery]

Your question seems to be more about learning than note taking, so here are some of my notes learning to augment what others have said:

To aid recall, use the quiz and recall method: "The idea is to study by lecturing out-loud, to an imaginary class, about the key concepts you need to learn. Something about articulating arguments in complete sentences cements them in your mind like nothing else"

from http://calnewport.com/blog/2007/08/02/the-straight-a-gospels...

Also the book How to become a straight A student by Cal Newport is thin but packed with actionable information. Highly recommended.