K I T C H E NM U L T I P U R P O S EB E D R O O M N O . 1

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S L I D I N G D O O R

D I S H W A S H E R

SKETCHNOTINGTHE ART OF VISUAL NOTE-tAKING

sketches have beenused for centuries as tools for exploring and communicatingideas...

They’re used in hollywood ...

... in architecture ...

... and in design.

Sketching is a fantastic way toexpress yourself — even ifyou’re not an accomplishedartist.

Unfortunately, sketching isfrowned upon by some, Most commonly, when it occurs during class.

pay attention!

because Taking notes is best done using words, right? RIGHT?

While Written notes can form a good reference, they’re not necessarily great for recall.

2012 Matthew Magain

Plus they look kind of boring!

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Like the one you’re reading now!

A Sketchnote differs from a comic in at least two ways:

Firstly, A Sketchnote is not strictly sequential — There are no panels to indicate sequence. Instead the sketcher captures the essence of the talk and arranges it as she chooses, in a form of personal curation.

A global movement, known assketchnoting (visual note-taking) is gaining popularity, particularly at tech conferences.

Sketchnoting uses a combination of:

... which makes it similar to that other frowned-upon art form ...

Comics!

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Sketchnoting requires you tomulti-task, which means you’reoften listening, processing,and drawing at the same time.

So, why create a sketchnote?

It can improve yourretention of the material.

Doing so forces you to pay attention. it’s not mindless doodling, it’s capturing information creatively.

However, You don’t need to be an accomplished artist to create a good sketchnote. Sure, it helps,but really You just need to be able to draw basic shapes.

In addition, The finished sketch makes a useful reference, a nostalgic keepsake, or even a unique gift for the presenter.

Sketchnoting can turn an otherwise boring presentation into a fun learning experience.

Secondly, There are less bad guys in a sketchnote (unless it’s from a talk about comics!)

GRRR!

SO, How does one get started?

For lots of examples, visit sketchnotearmy.com or checkout Eva-lotta lamm’s forthcomingbook on the topic.

Don’t worry about capturingeverything — you’re notcreating a definitive reference.And remember, It takes practice.over time your sketchnoteswill improve, and so will yourlistening skills.

If you’re feeling confident, whynot share your sketchnotesonline? I’d love to see someof your creations!

The next time you’re sitting ina talk, start writing down concepts that resonate with you. Arrangethe words, on the fly, in an interesting way, with personality.

Throw in a few quotes, andmaybe draw a speech bubble orstylized quotes around them.

Start experimenting withdifferent shapes that reinforce the message, and work up to sketching objects.

you can order Matthew’s latest children’s book, charlieweatherburn and the flying machine, from charlieweatherburn.com