Do not forget to ask the participant if you could record the session (for research purpose only).

Record the Session (if Possible)

It's quite helpful if you observe an interesting point you want to jump back into it again after the session.

Note Timestamps during The Session

You can add tags to before your point to make the note-taking simpler.

Capture your Observations During The Session

Even a simple thing could impact the way the user performs in a usability test.

Make A Note Of Everything

Always write down your note with objectivity, do not make assumptions about their behavior or feeling unless you want to talk about it with them after the test.

Stay True To The Fact

Always opt for one note taking perspective, style, format and timestamps. Differenciate quotes from observations, it will help you to jump into your notes after the session.

Be Consistent With Your Format

Make sure your notes are clear and do not write it down word by word (you'll loose your time if you're recording) but do not infer what you believe is happening.

Carefully Paraphrase

With the records after the session.

Highlight Missed Or Incomplete Parts

Take time as soon as possible to review the session with the previous ideas.

Recap After Your Session

Qualitative user research is just as important a part of rounding out your user research as quantitative. But unlike quantitative research, the data insights can only be as good as the note-taking…

9 tips to improve your note-taking skills

Maurane Poprawski