Cornell notes template
Free printable Cornell notes template: a cue column on the left, a large notes area, a summary box at the bottom and a name, date and topic header, lined or blank, as a PDF for Letter or A4.
Change the column widths, ruling and header below; the preview updates as you go.
Paper generator
How to make a Cornell notes template
- Set up the layout. Adjust the cue column width (about 30% is classic) and the summary box height at the bottom.
- Choose lined or blank. Pick lined notes with wide, college or narrow spacing, or a blank layout for diagrams and maths.
- Add the header. Keep the name, date, topic and class header for filing, or switch it off for more writing space.
- Download or print. Download the Cornell notes PDF or print as many pages as you need for the week.
Cornell notes layout
| Section | Classic size (Letter) | What goes there |
|---|---|---|
| Cue column | 2.5 in (about 30% of the width) | Keywords, questions, prompts |
| Notes area | 6 in (about 70% of the width) | Main notes during the lecture or reading |
| Summary box | 2 in at the bottom (about 20% of the height) | 3–4 sentence summary in your own words |
| Header | Name, date, topic, class | Filing and review |
The Cornell note-taking method in five steps
- Record: take notes in the notes area during the class or reading.
- Question: afterwards, write questions and keywords in the cue column.
- Recite: cover the notes and answer the cues out loud.
- Reflect: link the ideas to what you already know.
- Review: read the summary and cues regularly before tests.
Prefer plain pages? Print lined paper or dot grid paper instead.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cornell note-taking method?
The Cornell method, developed by Walter Pauk at Cornell University, splits a page into three parts: a wide notes column for the lecture, a narrow cue column on the left for questions and keywords, and a summary box at the bottom where you sum up the page in your own words.
How do you use a Cornell notes template?
During class, write notes in the right-hand notes area. Soon after, add questions and keywords in the cue column. Finally, write a short summary at the bottom. To review, cover the notes and quiz yourself using the cues.
How wide is the cue column in Cornell notes?
The classic layout uses a 2.5 inch cue column, a 6 inch notes column and a 2 inch summary area on US Letter paper. That is roughly 30% of the width and 20% of the height, close to this template's default.
Is the Cornell notes template lined?
It can be either. Choose lined (wide, college or narrow ruling) for text, or blank for diagrams, sketches and maths working.
Can I print Cornell notes on A4?
Yes. Choose A4, US Letter or US Legal. The columns scale with the page, so the proportions stay the same.
Is this Cornell notes template free?
Yes. It is free to download and print, for personal or classroom use, with no sign-up.