1 Encode. When you write something down you encode it in your brain. The more involved you are in this process, i.e., visualizing the words, writing them down, etc., the more your mind connects with the material.
2 Incidental repetition. Here at hamelin, we have made an observation: once you have notes written down in a notebook, you are likely to come across them accidentally as you flip through your notes in search of something else. This acts almost as subliminal messaging to yourself.
3 Prioritize. By writing and highlighting the items of importance, you train yourself to pick out the points of interest and synthesize concepts.
4 Boosts Neural Connectivity. All this activity devoted to recording information creates new neural pathways that help solidify the lessons you are learning, and connects previously encoded material.
5 Reassurance. Writing things down allows your brain to move onto the next topic or point of focus.