1. Choose the right color
Before you start using a stick highlighter, it’s important to choose the right color. Most highlighters come in bright colors like yellow, pink, green, and blue, but some also come in more neutral shades like grey. Choose a color that will stand out against the text you’re highlighting, but also keep in mind any guidelines or preferences your teacher or employer may have.
2. Apply the highlighter at a slight angle
To use a stick highlighter, you’ll want to hold it at a slight angle to the paper. This helps the ink flow more smoothly and can help prevent the tip from smudging or smearing the text. Apply light pressure and move the highlighter evenly across the text you want to emphasize.
3. Don’t overdo it
Highlighting too much text can actually make it harder to read and retain information. Stick to the most important points and avoid highlighting entire pages or paragraphs. A good rule of thumb is to only highlight 10-20% of the text you’re reading.
4. Experiment with different highlighting techniques
Depending on what you’re highlighting, there are different techniques you can use to make the information stand out. For example, you can highlight important definitions or vocabulary words with a different color than the rest of the text. You can also use a dark color like black or grey to underline important information or draw attention to key phrases.
5. Use highlighting to organize information
Highlighting can also be a great way to organize information and help you remember important details. For example, you can use one color to highlight main ideas and another to highlight supporting details or examples. This can make it easier to review your notes later on and can help you better understand and retain the information.
6. Be mindful of others
If you’re using a stick highlighter in a shared space like a classroom or office, be mindful of others around you. Avoid using bright colors or highlighting too aggressively, as this can be distracting or annoying to others. Additionally, make sure to put the cap back on the highlighter when you’re done using it to prevent it from drying out or leaking.
Overall, using a stick highlighter can be a great way to emphasize important information and organize your notes. By choosing the right color, ing the highlighter at a slight angle, avoiding overuse, experimenting with different techniques, using highlighting to organize information, and being mindful of others, you can make the most of this useful tool.