10 Tips for Taking Better General Conference Notes

General Conference is one of my favorite times of the year. It’s like a spiritual feast, filled with counsel, comfort, and direction straight from living prophets and apostles. But let’s be honest- sometimes after the weekend ends, our notes sit in a notebook or digital file and collect dust. If we’re not intentional, we might forget the very insights the Spirit whispered to us.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the way we take notes can make a big difference in how much we remember, apply, and live what we learn. So, here are 10 simple but powerful tips to help you get the most out of your note-taking this General Conference.

1. Start with prayer

Before the first session even begins, ask Heavenly Father to open your heart and mind. Pray for the ability to hear what He wants you to hear. Sometimes the Spirit teaches us things that aren’t even said out loud, and writing those impressions down is just as important as recording quotes.

2. Write impressions, not just quotes

It’s easy to jot down exact phrases or one-liners (and you should!), but don’t stop there. Pause and write the thoughts, promptings, and personal applications that come to your mind. Those are often the most life-changing notes you’ll take.

Get my favorite no-smear, smooth-writing gel pens right here!

3. Use categories or themes

Instead of one long running list, try dividing your notes into categories such as: faith, family, repentance, service, or spiritual gifts. This helps you see patterns across talks and makes it easier to find specific counsel later.

4. Try color-coding

If you’re a visual learner, grab a few pens or highlighters. For example:

• Blue = quotes

• Green = scripture references

• Yellow = personal impressions

• Pink = action items

It may sound simple, but it makes your notes easier (and more fun) to review.

These are my favorite highlighters for taking notes, and these ones are the best for marking scriptures!

5. Don’t stress about perfection

You don’t need perfectly organized notes to receive revelation. Sometimes the Spirit speaks so quickly you can only jot down a few words. That’s okay! Write what you can, then later you can expand on those thoughts while they’re fresh in your mind.

6. Create a “To-Do” list

One of the best ways to show we value General Conference is by acting on it. Keep a running “to-do” list as you listen—things you want to change, goals you want to set, or ways you want to serve. This turns inspiration into action.

My favorite to-do list that’s practical and cute!

7. Capture scriptures and references

When leaders share scriptures, jot them down. Later, you can study those verses in context. Sometimes the footnotes or surrounding chapters add even deeper meaning to their message.

8. Summarize each talk in one sentence

At the end of each talk, pause and write down a one-sentence summary of what you learned. For example: “Elder Bednar reminded me that small, consistent acts of faith bring lasting power.” These summaries make it easy to recall the heart of each message.

9. Use the notes feature in the Gospel Library app

If you’re more digital, the Gospel Library app has a powerful note-taking feature. You can highlight, add tags, and link impressions to talks. This makes it easy to revisit your notes months later when you need a spiritual boost.

10. Review and share

The most important tip of all? Don’t let your notes gather dust! Set aside time the week after Conference to reread them. Share a favorite insight with your family, Relief Society, or on social media. Teaching others what you’ve learned deepens your own testimony.

Note-taking isn’t about filling a notebook. It’s about opening our hearts to the whisperings of the Spirit and creating a personal record of revelation. Whether you write a lot or just a few lines, the key is to capture what matters most to you. As President Nelson has reminded us, the Lord will speak to each of us in personal, tailored ways. Let’s be ready to write it down… and then live it.