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Cornell Notes Template

Whether you’re studying for a quiz or preparing for a final exam, the Cornell note-taking method can make your life easier. This Cornell notes template gives you a format for structuring information so it’s easier to study and recall later.

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Use the Cornell Note taking method for faster results

Cornell note-taking isn’t just a way to write things down — it’s a method for reviewing your notes that helps you retain the information. 

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Divide the page

Our Cornell notes template makes it easy for you to implement the Cornell method with ease. Apply this template to a note, and you’ll see a lot of work has been done for you.

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Take notes

Whether you’re learning from a lecture, book, or some other media, write down important information in the “Notes” section of the template.

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Ask questions

When you’re finished taking notes, think of questions or cues that prompt you to recall each important piece of information.

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Recite

Cover your notes and try responding to each of your questions or cues. Peek at your notes if you have to, but keep trying until you can respond correctly without looking.

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Review

Study your notes to prepare for a quiz or exam. Start by reading your summaries for each relevant topic. You can also cover the notes and practice reciting, as you did before. 

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Cornell Note-taking Template

Following the steps above will help you do more than simply hold information in your head for a few days. It’ll help you understand your notes on a deeper level, so you can put them to use. Try using this Cornell notes sheet when preparing for your next big test or any time you want to learn something new.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cornell Notes?

Cornell notes have been used successfully since the 1950s, when originally developed by Walter Pauk of Cornell University.  For generations, college graduates and professionals have used Cornell note-taking to distill complex lessons and lectures into a format that’s easier to digest and retain. 

Before Zoom lectures, students often struggled to get the most out of their in-class time. Using a digital or printable Cornell notes template from Evernote gives you everything you need to extract the value from any class with ease.

Cornell notes are ideal for drafting a paper or report — allowing you to outline your thoughts in a way that makes sense to revisit later. When you’re ready to get your writing started, the Cornell method of note-taking enables you to return to your notes and recall the most important information.

Why should you start using Cornell notes to enhance your note taking?

• Remember more – Memories fade quickly. Be sure no knowledge is left behind with Cornell notes.

• Improve concentration – Intelligent note-taking keeps your mind mentally active and engaged while you listen.

• Prepare for testing – Look up any Cornell notes example, and you’ll see that the way the information is presented makes it easy to test yourself on what you’ve retained.

• Easy to review – When it’s time for your exams, easily refer back to your notes and brush up on what you’ve already learned.

• Shareable notes – Share your carefully taken Cornell notes with your fellow students and help everyone succeed.