Strategies for Success
Academic Strategies
Cornell Study Sheets
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Create Cornell Study Sheets
The Cornell method provides a systematic format for
condensing and organizing notes. The student divides the
paper into two columns: the note-taking column (usually on
the right) is twice the size of the questions/key word
column (on the left). The student should leave five to
seven lines, or about x (which should be recorded as soon
as possible so that the lecture and questions will be fresh
in the student's mind) or key words are written in the key
word column. These notes can be taken from any source of
information, such as, fiction and nonfiction books, DVDs,
lectures, text books, etc.
After about 24 hours of taking the notes, the
student taking the notes must revise and write
questions and then the student writes a brief
summary in the bottom five to seven lines of the
page. This helps to increase understanding of the
topic. When studying for either a test or quiz, the
student has a concise but detailed and relevant record of previous classes. However, despite
some of the truth in many people finding added benefits in taking Cornell Notes, many prefer
using brief bullets or statements.
When reviewing the material, the student can cover up the note-taking (right) column to answer
the questions/keywords in the key word or cue (left) column. The student is encouraged to
reflect on the material and review the notes regularly.
Strategies for Success
Academic Strategies
The Cornell Note-taking System
2 1/2"
6"
<-------- ------------><----------- -------------- ------------- --------------- --------Note taking Column
Cue Column
1. Record: During the lecture, use the note
taking column to record the lecture using
telegraphic sentences.
2. Questions: As soon after class as possible, formulate
questions based on the notes in the right-hand
column. Writing questions helps to clarify meanings,
reveal relationships, establish continuity, and
strengthen memory. Also, the writing of questions
sets up a perfect stage for exam-studying later.
3. Recite: Cover the note taking column with a sheet of
paper. Then, looking at the questions or cue-words in
the question and cue column only, say aloud, in your
own words, the answers to the questions, facts, or
ideas indicated by the cue-words.
4. Reflect: Reflect on the material by asking yourself
questions, for example: "What's the significance of
these facts? What principle are they based on? How
can I apply them? How do they fit in with what I
already know? What's beyond them?
5. Review: Spend at least ten minutes every week
reviewing all your previous notes. If you do, you'll
retain a great deal for current use, as well as, for the
exam.
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2"
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Summary
After class, use this space at the bottom of each page
to summarize the notes on that page.
Adapted from How to Study in College 7/e by Walter Pauk, 2001 Houghton Mifflin
Company