If you're planning on venturing into Controlled Airspace, I use a simple acronym to jot down the clearance. The first letter is written vertically like this;
C - leared to (destination, where ever)
R - oute (the route atc wants you to take)
A - ltitude
F - requency after departure (sometimes relevant)
T - ransponder (4 digit squawk code)
In an example; ATC's call to you 'Bravo tango romeo, you're cleared to parafield coastal off shore via outer harbour, then planned route. maintain 1500, squawk 3404.'
Written like this;
C PPF
R coastal outer harbour (can just use a shorter version, its just for short term memory)
A 1500
F ----
T 3404
Hope this helps!