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PDF annotation guideline

Annotating academic papers effectively involves assigning specific types of notes or comments to different highlight colors. This system can help you quickly identify important information and organize your thoughts. Here's a suggested color-coding system for your annotations:

  1. Red: Key Arguments or Thesis Statements
    • Use red to highlight the central arguments or thesis statements of the paper. This color will help these crucial points stand out.
  2. Yellow: Important Facts and Data
    • Yellow is great for highlighting important facts, statistics, or data. It's a bright color that draws attention to critical evidence supporting the paper's claims.
  3. Blue: Definitions and Technical Terms
    • Blue can be used for definitions of key terms or technical jargon. It's helpful for quick reference, especially in papers with complex or specialized language.
  4. Purple: Questions or Unclear Points
    • Use purple for annotating questions you have or points you find unclear or confusing. This will remind you to seek clarification or further study these areas.
  5. Orange: Personal Insights or Connections
    • Orange can be used for your own insights, connections to other materials, or ideas for further research. It's a way of inserting your own voice into the text.

Remember, the most important aspect is consistency. Once you decide on a color scheme, stick to it throughout your reading and annotating process. This will create a visual language that makes reviewing your notes more efficient and effective.