Cornell Notes
The proven system of note taking and studying.
The proven system of note taking and studying.
How to Take Cornell Notes
Taking Cornell Notes is easy.
Simply divide your paper like the drawing on the left.
In the top right-hand column, take normal notes (you can take notes in a style you are comfortable
using such as outline, list, or shorthand).
After class (in order to study), use the bottom of the notes to summarize in 5 - 10 sentences the
main ideas from the overall lecture. Then, use the left-hand column to write questions, in which the
notes answer.
Now fold the paper so that you can only see the questions on the left and try to answer them (you
can also have a friend or parent quiz you).
Remember that Cornell Notes work because they force you to revisit your notes and think about
them. If you skip the summary and question steps, then you won't benefit from this proven system.
Give it a try before your next test and see the results!
Below is what a sample set of notes might look like from a Literature discussion on the novel, The
Lord of the Flies:
Taking Cornell Notes is easy.
Simply divide your paper like the drawing on the left.
In the top right-hand column, take normal notes (you can take notes in a style you are comfortable
using such as outline, list, or shorthand).
After class (in order to study), use the bottom of the notes to summarize in 5 - 10 sentences the
main ideas from the overall lecture. Then, use the left-hand column to write questions, in which the
notes answer.
Now fold the paper so that you can only see the questions on the left and try to answer them (you
can also have a friend or parent quiz you).
Remember that Cornell Notes work because they force you to revisit your notes and think about
them. If you skip the summary and question steps, then you won't benefit from this proven system.
Give it a try before your next test and see the results!
Below is what a sample set of notes might look like from a Literature discussion on the novel, The
Lord of the Flies:
