How to Create Simple Beginner Bible Study Notes
Author: Vanessa Rooney
Vanessa is an Australian LDS lifestyle blogger. Landed in Salt Lake City, Utah, from the sun kissed beaches of Bondi, Australia, Vanessa is a wife and mother of three children.
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Bible study can feel overwhelming, especially for beginners. With its rich history, deep theology, and countless interpretations, where do you start? The key is to begin with simple, structured notes that help you engage with Scripture without feeling lost. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating beginner-friendly Bible study notes that enhance your understanding and strengthen your faith.
Don’t forget to download your free SOAP notes bible study worksheets!
Before we jump into making notes it’s important to know what type of study notes work for you! To find out we are going to walk you through a learning style quiz.
Your Learning Style
One of the most important tools I learned at college was discovering what my learning style is. By understanding the way I learned best allowed me to stop doing what was not working (which was a lot), and focus on what did work.
Discovering Your Learning Style Quiz
Instructions: For each statement, choose the option that best describes you. Add up the number of answers in each category to determine your learning style.
1. When learning something new, I prefer to:
- A. Watch a video or see a demonstration.
- B. Listen to an explanation or discussion.
- C. Try it out myself hands-on.
2. When trying to remember information, I:
- A. Picture it in my mind.
- B. Say it out loud or listen to someone explain it.
- C. Write it down or move around while studying.
3. In a classroom setting, I enjoy:
- A. Watching the teacher use visuals like diagrams or charts.
- B. Listening to lectures and discussions.
- C. Participating in activities, role-playing, or experiments.
4. When solving problems, I tend to:
- A. Draw out the problem or create a visual map.
- B. Talk through the problem or discuss it with others.
- C. Physically manipulate objects or try different solutions.
5. My favorite way to prepare for a test is to:
- A. Review notes and highlight key points.
- B. Record myself reading and listen to it.
- C. Create flashcards and practice actively.
6. During my free time, I enjoy:
- A. Watching TV or looking at pictures.
- B. Listening to music or podcasts.
- C. Building things or engaging in physical activities.
Scoring:
- Count how many A, B, and C answers you chose.
- A = Visual Learner: You learn best through seeing and visualizing information.
- B = Auditory Learner: You learn best through listening and verbal explanations.
- C = Kinesthetic Learner: You learn best by doing, touching, and experiencing.
Results and Tips
- Visual Learners: Use diagrams, mind maps, and videos to enhance learning. Highlight text and color-code notes.
- Auditory Learners: Join discussions, listen to recordings, and explain concepts to others.
- Kinesthetic Learners: Engage in hands-on activities, practice with real-world scenarios, and take frequent study breaks.
Now that you have gained more insight into your learning style let’s move onto studying the Bible.
1. Choose a Translation You Understand
The first step in studying the Bible is selecting a translation that resonates with you. While the King James Version (KJV) is poetic, its archaic language can be challenging for beginners. Consider user-friendly translations like the New International Version (NIV), New Living Translation (NLT), or English Standard Version (ESV). A clear translation will make your note-taking more straightforward and your study more fruitful.
Personally I started with the KJV and found it hard to understand as the language was so new to me so I ended up buying an NIV version. When I am doing a study session on a particular verse I like to read both translations starting with the NIV first so I can gain an understanding of what is going on. Then I will move onto the KJV to see if I can gain more depth from the scripture I am studying.
2. Gather Essential Supplies
Before you begin, ensure you have the right tools for effective note-taking:
- A notebook or journal: Choose one dedicated solely to your Bible study.
- Pens and highlighters: Use different colors to underline or highlight key verses and themes.
- Bible commentary or dictionary: These resources can provide context for challenging passages.
- Sticky notes or tabs: Mark pages or jot down questions for later study.
Having these tools ready helps you focus and keeps your notes organized.
I like to use tabs for different sections in my journal which helps me keep things organized. I also have a separate folder that I use when I am working on print outs.
For visual learners one thing I found really helpful when making notes was creating a large margin line. I made mine around 3 inches wide and I would write notes or headings in the margins in a different color and then write the body of the text in the main materials.
3. Select a Passage to Study
Start small. Choose a single chapter or even a few verses. For beginners, books like Psalms, Proverbs, or the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) are great starting points. These texts are accessible and filled with practical lessons for daily life.
We also have a tonne of free bible study resources to help you with your bible study.
4. Pray Before You Begin
Invite God into your study time. Pray for wisdom, understanding, and a heart open to His Word. A simple prayer like, “Lord, guide me as I read and help me to understand Your truths,” sets the tone for meaningful study.
5. Read the Passage Slowly
Read your chosen passage slowly and deliberately. Consider reading it multiple times to let the words sink in. If possible, read aloud to engage your senses and enhance comprehension. Each time you read, look for words or phrases that stand out.
I usually end up googling around too when I am reading passages to see if there are deeper meanings that I am missing or if I don’t understand something which is more often the case than not.
For instance I was studying about Moses mother Jochebed this week and the bible verse I was studying said that she hid Moses because he was a “Goodly Child.” With my own understanding I could not understand what that meant. I mean what baby is not good? All babies are innocent?
After further research “goodly child” it meant that he was considered a remarkable child , likely signifying his potential for greatness and God’s chosen purpose for his life. This is what gave her confidence in placing him in the basket in the river.
She knew he had a divine purpose and that God would intervene.
6. Write Down the Key Verse(s)
Identify one or two verses that capture the main theme or message of the passage. Write them down in your notebook. Highlighting these verses helps you focus on the core teachings and makes your notes concise and impactful.
Being a visual and kinesthetic learner with ADHD, sometimes I like to think about these verses and color at the same time. I find it helps me ponder a little deeper while dealing with my excess energy.
7. Use the SOAP Method
One effective way to structure your Bible study notes is the SOAP method:
- S – Scripture: Write out the verse(s) that stood out to you.
- O – Observation: Note what the verse is saying. Who is speaking? Who is being addressed? What is the context? What was happening in the environment at that time? Was there wars or peace?
- A – Application: Reflect on how the verse applies to your life. What lessons can you take from it? How can you act on it today?
- P – Prayer: Write a short prayer inspired by the passage, asking God to help you live out His Word.
This method keeps your notes clear and actionable.
Here is an example of using the SOAP method on the verse Philippians 4:13.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (NKJV)
S – Scripture
Write out the verse:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
O – Observation
What does the verse say?
- Paul, the author, expresses his confidence that with Christ’s help, he can endure any situation.
- The verse speaks about reliance on Christ, not on personal strength.
- It emphasizes that Christ empowers believers to face challenges and accomplish God’s purposes.
Key observations:
- The context of this verse is important: Paul is discussing contentment in all circumstances, whether in abundance or need.
- It’s about spiritual endurance, not achieving personal ambitions.
A – Application
How does this verse apply to your life?
- When facing difficult situations, I can remember that my strength comes from Christ, not my abilities.
- This verse encourages me to trust God’s power and provision, especially when I feel weak or unqualified.
- It reminds me to rely on Christ daily, not only in struggles but in every aspect of my life.
- It reminds me that when I am faced in a situation that I feel is beyond my reach God can and will work through me because all things can and will be done through him.
Personal application:
I will rely on Christ’s strength to tackle a challenging project at work this week and not let fear or self-doubt hold me back.
P – Prayer
Write a prayer inspired by the verse:
Heavenly Father, thank You for being my source of strength. When I feel weak or overwhelmed, help me remember that I can endure and accomplish all things through Christ. Teach me to rely on Your power daily and to trust in Your plans for my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection
The SOAP method helps break down this short verse into meaningful steps for deeper understanding and practical application.
8. Ask Questions
Jot down any questions that arise as you read. For example:
- What does this passage reveal about God’s character?
- Are there any commands to follow or promises to claim?
- How does this passage connect to the larger biblical narrative?
Asking questions fosters curiosity and deeper engagement with Scripture.
9. Summarize the Passage in Your Own Words
After studying the passage, summarize it in a few sentences. Paraphrasing helps solidify your understanding and makes the message personal. For example, if studying John 3:16, you might write, “God loves the world so much that He sent Jesus to save us. Believing in Him gives us eternal life.”
10. Reflect on the Application
Take time to reflect on how the passage relates to your life. Write down specific actions you can take to live out what you’ve learned. For instance, if studying a passage on forgiveness, you might commit to reconciling with someone.
11. Highlight Themes or Patterns
As you study, look for recurring themes or patterns. Does the passage emphasize love, faith, obedience, or repentance? Noting these themes helps you connect individual verses to the Bible’s broader message.
12. Record Personal Insights
What stood out to you during your study? Did you feel convicted, comforted, or inspired? Write down these personal insights to revisit later. Over time, these reflections will show how God is working in your life through His Word.
13. Add Visuals or Diagrams
For visual learners, consider adding sketches, charts, or diagrams to your notes. For example, you might draw a timeline of events in a passage or create a mind map of related verses. Visual aids make your notes more engaging and easier to review.
14. Keep Your Notes Organized
Develop a system to keep your notes accessible and well-organized. You might:
- Use headings and subheadings for clarity.
- Date each entry to track your progress.
- Create an index or table of contents in your notebook.
An organized system makes it easier to review past studies and build on your understanding.
15. Review and Reflect Regularly
Set aside time each week to review your notes. Reflect on what you’ve learned and how you’ve applied it. Regular review reinforces your understanding and helps you see how God’s Word is shaping your life.
16. Share Your Insights
Discussing your study with others deepens your understanding and encourages accountability. Share your notes with a friend, family member, or Bible study group. Hearing different perspectives can enrich your study.
17. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key to effective Bible study. Aim for short, manageable sessions each day. Even 15 minutes can be impactful when approached with intention and focus. Over time, you’ll build a habit that strengthens your faith.
18. Be Patient with Yourself
Remember, Bible study is a journey, not a race. It’s okay if you don’t understand everything right away. Pray for guidance, seek answers, and trust that God will reveal His truths in His timing.
Conclusion
Creating beginner Bible study notes doesn’t have to be complicated. By starting small, staying organized, and focusing on application, you can grow in your understanding and relationship with God.
Whether you’re jotting down key verses, reflecting on personal insights, or using the SOAP method, the goal is to engage with Scripture in a way that’s meaningful and transformative. Begin today, and let God’s Word guide your steps.
What have you found successful in your bible study sessions? Let us know in the comments below!