THE CORNELL NOTE TAKING SYSTEM

Step #1: PrepareRecall Column

--2 Inches--

Put ideas down(after lecture) into

words/visuals.

Record Column

--6 Inches--

Record the lecture/text as fully as possible.

Analysis ColumnCreate meaning from the main points from the discussion.

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-2 1

/2 I

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Step #2: Record

• Write the material in the Record Column.

Notetaking Tips

Keep a separate section of your notebook or binder for each course.

Notes for each lecture/reading should begin on a new page.

Date your lecture/reading notes and number all pages.

Never use a sentence when you can use a phrase, or a phrase when you can use a word.

Notetaking Tips, Continued Use indentations to distinguish between major and minor points.

Summarize notes in your own words, with the exception of formulas, definitions, and specific facts.

Use abbreviations and symbols wherever possible.

Make sure you can understand what you have written and make corrections, if needed.

If you should miss something completely, leave a blank space and get it later.

Step #3: Recall

• As soon after class/the reading as possible, summarize these facts and ideas in words and drawings in the Recall Column.– Helps show relationships and patterns.

– Prepares you for tests gradually.

Step #4: Analysis

• Write down generalizations, inferences, and conclusions based on the content found in the Record Column in the Analysis Column.– Prepares you for higher level thinking questions which

may be found on the test.

Step #5: Recite

• Cover up the Record Column.

• Using only the words/pictures in the Recall Column, explain the contents of the Record Column in sufficient detail and in your own words.

• Then uncover the Record Column and check against what you stated.

Step #6: Reflect

• Make sense of your notes by finding relationships and order in the material.

• Try to put ideas in categories and link old material to new content.

Step #7: Review

• If you will spend fifteen minutes every day to look over your notes, you will retain most of what you have learned and you will relate the facts/ideas to present lectures or readings.

The End!