Cornell Method of Notetaking

Steps for Cornell Method

1. Survey text to identify topics and subtopics.

2. Convert topics and subtopics into questions that will give shape to main
ideas and guide you in search for relevant details.

3. As you read, stop periodically to fill in details and main ideas.

4. When you finish reading, take time to review and refine your notes.

5. Cover up notes and try to answer the questions you created in Step 2.
Assess your understanding of what you read by using a set of symbols such
as this one:

√ I know this.
? I have a question about this.
* I need to review this.

Why the Strategy Works (What the Research Says)

A well-organized, clearly written text is obviously much easier for students to

work with than one that is disorganized or unclear. Yet organization and clarity
alone do not ensure student comprehension and retention. The Cornell Method
provides a simple structure that allows students to build a brief synopsis of the
main ideas and details in expository reading. By converting topics into questions,
students learn how to filter essential information from a text. If information does
not help to answer the question, then it is usually nonessential. An added benefit
of the strategy is that it is a great study aid and makes it easy for students to
determine the gaps in their comprehension.

Copyright 2002 by Corwin Press, Inc. Reprint from Reading for Academic Success by Strong, Silver, Perini, & Tuculescu.
Name:

Assignment:

Cornell Method
Questions Main Ideas Details

Self Assessment Key

√ I know this.
? I have a question about this.
* I need to review this.