How to... Cornell Notes, by sofiatreeproductions on YouTube. 6 min 3 s.
- Video length
- 6 min 3 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Open your notebook to a fresh page. Draw a horizontal line about 2 inches from the bottom and a vertical line about 2.5 inches from the left edge.
Write the date, class or topic and any source at the top of the page. Keep this heading short so you can find the notes later.
Record the main ideas in the wide right-hand notes area during class. Use short phrases, abbreviations and bullet points rather than full sentences.
Leave a blank line between separate ideas and start a new page for each new topic. This makes the notes easier to scan and revise.
Write questions, keywords or cues in the narrow left column after class. Match each cue to the notes beside it.
Write a summary of the page in the bottom section. Use 5 to 7 sentences to state the main points in your own words.
Cover the notes area and use the cue column to test yourself. Say the answer aloud, then check the notes.
Review the page for a few minutes within 24 hours, then again later in the week. Fix gaps or unclear points while they are fresh.
Tips and common mistakes
Keep the cue column narrow; it is for prompts, not full notes.
Write your summary in your own words instead of copying sentences from the page.
Use one page per lecture or reading so the summary stays focused.
If you miss a point, leave space and fill it in after class rather than stopping to write every word.
Questions
Do I have to use a special Cornell notebook?
No. A normal lined notebook works. You can draw the lines yourself or use a printed Cornell note template.
When should I write the cue column and summary?
Take notes in the right column during class. Add cues and the summary soon after, while the material is still fresh.
How long should the summary be?
Aim for 5 to 7 sentences that cover the main ideas on that page. Keep it shorter than the notes themselves.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
