Our Simple Cornell Notes Google Docs Template is designed to simplify and optimize your note-taking experience. With its clean and minimalist design, you can focus on capturing key information without distractions. The template provides ample space for writing, ensuring that your notes are organized and easy to review. It is also print-friendly, allowing you to create hard copies for offline studying. Best of all, this template is available for free, so you can start improving your note-taking efficiency right away.
Format: Google Docs
Contributed by:
Alex Janovich
10 Best Tips for Creating Cornell Notes
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Divide Your Page: Start by drawing a vertical line about 2.5 inches from the left edge of your paper, and a horizontal line about 2 inches from the bottom. This creates the main sections: a narrow left column, a wider right column, and a space at the bottom.
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Use the Left Column for Cues: The left column is where you jot down cues or keywords about the content in the right column. These cues will help you recall the main ideas during review.
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Right Column for Main Notes: Take your main notes in the right column. Summarize the content, avoid lengthy sentences, and focus on key points, definitions, and explanations.
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Abbreviate and Use Symbols: To save time and space, use abbreviations and symbols when taking notes. Develop a set of personal shorthand that you can easily understand.
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Highlight or Underline: During or after the lecture, use a highlighter or underline important information. This will help key points stand out when you review your notes.
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Questions in the Bottom Section: In the bottom section of your page, write questions, thoughts, or cues related to the notes you've taken. This will help you engage with the material and prepare for discussions or assignments.
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Summarize: At the end of the lecture or reading, take a few moments to summarize the key points in the main notes section. This concise summary will be valuable for quick review.
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Review and Self-Quiz: When you study, cover the right column (main notes) and use the cues and questions in the left and bottom sections to self-quiz. This active recall technique is an effective way to reinforce your memory.
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Create a Title: Give each set of Cornell notes a title, including the date and source (lecture, textbook chapter, etc.). This makes it easier to locate and organize your notes later.
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Personalize Your System: Cornell notes are a flexible system. Feel free to adapt and personalize it to your liking. Some people like to use different colors for highlighting, while others use digital tools for creating digital Cornell notes.
Remember that the key to effective note-taking with the Cornell method is active engagement with the material and regular review of your notes. Over time, you can refine your approach to make it even more effective for your learning style.
