How to Write Cornell Notes
Cornell Notes refers to a note-taking system developed in the 1950s by Walter Pauk, a Cornell University instructor. Pauk originally taught the system to writing students as a method to gather, organize and study lecture information. Since then, Cornell Notes have been widely adapted for use in K-12 classrooms largely due to its simplicity and versatility. Based on a two-column format, Cornell Notes lends itself to almost any subject in the curriculum.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Divide a page of notebook paper into two sections. Use a ruler to draw a vertical line 1 ½ inches from the left side of the page. The line should go from the top to within 2 inches of the bottom.
-
2
Take notes in the right column. Record equations and definitions in paragraph form. It is not necessary to write your notes in full sentences; jot what is relevant to the concept.
-
-
3
Put cue words in the left column. Reduce the content of each paragraph to one word then write the word in the left column.
-
4
Review the right column. Cover the notes with a sheet of paper and recite everything you remember about each concept using the keywords as a guide. Lift the sheet to check your accuracy only when you have gone over the entire list.
-
5
Reflect on your notes. Write a summary of the notes in two or three sentences at the bottom of the page.
-
6
Study your notes. Revisit your notes about 10 minutes each day until you take the test.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Read Pauk’s suggestions for how to write Cornell Notes in "How to Study in College" (see Resources below).
Remember to write your questions about the assigned reading or lecture on the notes so that you can follow up on them later.
Cornell Notes work well with information that is presented in chronological order, such as a timeline or a story. Use concept maps for information that is presented in a non-linear form instead.
Obtain Cornell Notes worksheets from the Internet. Key in the search phrase “Cornell Notes Template” and you will find a huge list of relevant results from which to choose. Some are available for download in Word; others can be printed from a PDF. Modify the templates as needed (see Resources below).
ESL students should write pictures or drawings in the keyword column.
Resources
- Photo Credit ReneeV
