Sharing notes is a common student tradition that’s been around as long as all-nighters. We’ve all been in a situation where we’ve been asked for our notes or had to borrow someone else’s, but it can get tricky. When is it okay to share class notes? As long as you are not relying on someone else’s lecture notes for every class or vice versa, it is okay to exchange notes, especially with study buddies. Here are a couple of general rules for sharing lecture notes:

Share mutually

Sharing notes does have its benefits, but it is not excuse to skip class. When you compare notes with your classmates, you may get extra information that you missed from the lecture or you may give that fellow coed some information that they missed. Sharing lecture notes must be mutual, so that each student does the same amount of work.

Use note-sharing websites wisely

With all the note-sharing websites out there, it’s hard not to take advantage of these. There’s no harm in utilizing these note-sharing tools, as long as you use wisely. These sites aren’t a free pass to skip class, they’re there to help you. Reap all the benefits of sites like studyblue.com by taking your own notes in class and using the additional notes for more study material. You can also help others out by posting your notes and study guide.

Recopy ALL notes

Re-typing or re-writing your lecture notes will most likely increase your memory of them, so even if your classmate has emailed you a copy of their notes, copy them yourself. You’ll feel more organized and you’ll have a better grasp on the material.

Do NOT hold notebooks hostage

When someone has let you borrow their notes, they are doing you a favor. The last thing you want to do is make them regret it by not returning their notebook as soon as possible. Make it a priority to copy their notes and have it back to them by the next time the class meets.

Although sharing or exchanging notes sometimes gets a bad rep as cheating, it is a completely innocent tradition, if done right. Slacking off because you already have the notes from someone else is a no-no, but paying attention in class, taking your own notes, and comparing with fellow coeds may be your golden ticket to an A.

Raquel Santos is a Health and Fitness writer for College Lifestyles™. She is a senior studying Dietetics at Rutgers University in New Brunswick and an absolute gym rat. When she’s not training for races, she likes to catch up on the latest health trends, read, hang out with friends and family, draw, and write in her blogs.