[slphil]

This makes no difference. Players are required to keep notation in tournament games, and the use of external software (like what is used at the top boards at some tournaments) does not absolve the players of this responsibility. Writing down the moves of the game as it is being played is a major part of playing chess, and it is one of the most important things for players to learn because it directly improves play (even disregarding reviewing the games afterwards!).

[gmiller123456]

Players are required to keep notation in tournament games, and the use of external software ... does not absolve the players of this responsibility

New technology can change the rules. I'm not sure about FIDE, I'm a former USCF TD. The USCF began allowing digital scoresheets many years ago. No doubt sponsorship from Monroi played a roll in the rule change, but it happened none the less. I can easily see the use of digital chessboards eventually eliminating the requirement to manually write moves down.

There are also many instances where players are not required to notate (at least under USCF rules). Like when a player's time remaining drops below 5min in sudden death time controls. When a player can't read or write. Blind, or other handicapped players. And blitz games.

At many of my tournaments it was pretty routine for parents to set up video cameras to record the games because the player's were too young to read or write.

[rixed]

In case this was not meant to be ironical, could you explain how noting moves improves play?

[slphil]

I am a chess professional, although more as a teacher than a player, so I have a lot of experience in this field. As caro_douglos pointed out, it slows down the initial reaction to opponent's moves, which is one reason why it instantly improves performance for new players. It forces the player to settle into a certain rhythm of play which prevents silly mistakes.

It is also permitted (and encouraged) to write down the time on the clock after each move, and to record all draw offers, both of which are valuable information during and after the game. If one of my goals is to grind down my opponent's clock in a complex position where I have the initiative, seeing how much more time he is using on average gives me an idea of how long I need to maintain the tension to gain a sufficient time advantage. For example, in a game where both players start with two hours, entering the endgame with 1 hour versus my opponent's 15 minutes is an enormous advantage, even in a position which should otherwise be drawn with perfect play.

Also, in some time controls, players gain extra time after a certain move (generally the 40th), so it can be very important to know exactly when you're going to get that extra hour. These time controls are less common than they used to be.

I have students as young as 5 years old learn how to keep notation after only a few weeks of learning chess. It is a very important skill.

[caro_douglos]

It slows down your initial reaction to a move.

1) your opponent moves

2) opponent hits clock

3) they go to write down the move

4) you write down the move

5) you move

6) hit clock

7) write down your move

8) opponent writes down your move

...

Imagine if this were done in poker!

When it comes to studying for an upcoming tournament match you will know who your opponent is so you have the ability to study up on their previous play. Maybe they play a certain style against your mainline go-to that you can exploit.

Edit: grammar/spacing