Effective note-taking during UPSC preparation involves several best practices. Firstly, candidates should organize notes in a structured manner, using headings and subheadings for clarity. Employing the Cornell Method can facilitate better retention and understanding. It's also beneficial to use bullet points for summarizing key concepts and integrating mind maps for visual representation. Regularly reviewing and revising notes helps reinforce information retention. Additionally, using different colors can enhance the appeal and facilitate quick reference during final revisions.