Cornell Notes

To use Cornell Notes, set up your page with a notes area, a cue/question area, and a summary.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Cornell Notes have a Cue section for questions and points to return to on the left, a Notes section on the right, and a Summary at the bottom.

It is essential that the margin of the cue column is exactly 2.5 inches from the left edge of the paper.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

It’s ok to set up the paper whatever way works best for you. Some students find the standard Cornell Notes set up doesn’t give them enough room, so they open their notebook to a new page for each class. They use the whole width of the page for their “notes” section and the back page of notes from the last class for their “cue” section.  

Using the notes and the questions area simultaneously can help you stay active in class.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Using your brain in multiple ways helps you stay active. 

The cue/question area should only be completed after class.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Writing down what you need to learn while you’re thinking analytically at the same time can help your brain stay active. 

In the cue/question area, questions need to be well-formed full ideas.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

The cue column is a great place to write your ideas, even if they’re still in progress! You can go back later and make updates or fill in gaps. 

Spending a few minutes after class writing a summary of what happened can help you get the big picture of what you are learning.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Immediate review is incredibly useful for retaining information.

Reviewing your notes for a few minutes before class can help you make connections from one class to the next.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Yes, reviewing your notes before class can help you prepare.

Cornell Notes should only be used during lectures.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Cornell Notes can be useful any time you need to learn like watching videos or reading texts.

It’s fine to adapt aspects of this system to see what works best for you.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Give it a try!