Do you want to take better notes during your online classes or meetings? Learning how to make Cornell notes in Google Docs can help you organize your thoughts and study more effectively. This simple method divides your document into three sections: cues, notes, and summary. Let me quickly guide you through the process. You’ll create a Google Doc, format it into the Cornell style, and then use it to take organized notes. Now, let’s dive into the details!
Step by Step Tutorial to Make Cornell Notes in Google Docs
Before we jump into the step-by-step process, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. We want to create a template that will help us take notes in a structured, organized way. The Cornell notes system has a section for the main notes, a narrow column for keywords or questions, and a space at the bottom for a summary. Ready? Let’s get started.
Step 1: Open Google Docs and create a new document
To start making Cornell notes, you need to begin with a blank canvas. Open Google Docs and click on the ‘+’ button to create a new document.
Once you’ve got your new document open, you’re ready to start formatting. Don’t worry, it’s pretty easy, and I’ll walk you through it.
Step 2: Set up the document layout
Now, we need to divide the document into the three Cornell notes sections.
First, change the document’s margins to give you more space for the notes section. Then, insert a table with two columns—one narrow and one wide. This will be for the cues and the notes. Finally, at the bottom of the document, leave space for the summary.
Step 3: Customize the layout
Here, you’ll make the template your own. Adjust the column widths to your liking, and add headings for each section if you want.
You might also want to select a font that’s easy to read and set a font size that’s comfortable for you. Remember, this template is all about making your note-taking process smoother, so tailor it to your needs.
Step 4: Save the template
Once you’re happy with how the document looks, save it as a template so you can use it again and again.
To do this, click on ‘File’, then ‘Save as template’. Give your template a name so you can easily find it later. This step will save you loads of time in the future.
Once your template is set up, you’re ready to start taking notes the Cornell way. Just fill in the sections during your lecture or meeting. And when you’re done, you’ll have a neat, organized document that will make studying or reviewing a breeze.
Tips for Making Cornell Notes in Google Docs
- Keep your cues section concise. Use it for keywords or questions that will trigger your memory.
- In the notes section, be thorough but not overly verbose. Write down only what’s necessary.
- The summary at the bottom is your chance to distill what you’ve learned into a few sentences. Don’t skip this part—it’s key!
- Customize your template with different fonts or colors to make different sections stand out.
- Use bullet points or numbering in your notes section to keep things neat and organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access Google Docs?
Just head to docs.google.com, and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have one, you can create it for free.
Can I share my Cornell notes template with others?
Absolutely! Just click on the ‘Share’ button in the top right corner of your document and enter the email address of the person you’d like to share it with.
What should I put in the cues section?
This is where you jot down main ideas, questions, or keywords. Think of it as the "memory jogger" for your notes.
Is the summary really necessary?
It sure is! The summary helps you review the key points and consolidate your understanding of the topic.
Can I print out my Cornell notes from Google Docs?
Of course! Just go to ‘File’, then ‘Print’, and you’ll have a physical copy of your notes.
Summary
- Open Google Docs and create a new document.
- Set up the document layout with a two-column table and space for a summary.
- Customize the layout to your preferences.
- Save the document as a template.
Conclusion
Taking great notes doesn’t have to be a struggle. With Cornell notes in Google Docs, you’re armed with a powerful tool to boost your learning and retention. Remember, the key is in the structure—cues on the side, detailed notes in the main section, and a succinct summary at the end. This method not only helps you during note-taking but also makes study sessions more productive. Now, it’s time for you to create your own Cornell notes template in Google Docs. Give it a try and see how it transforms your studying game. And if you ever get stuck or have questions, revisit this guide or reach out for help. Happy note-taking!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech content online for more than ten years. He enjoys writing about Google Docs in addition to many other applications and devices and has cumulatively covered Google’s word-processing application in hundreds of different articles.
He has been published on dozens of popular websites, and his works have accumulated millions of pageviews.
While focused primarily on tutorials and guides for popular electronics like the iPhone and iPad, as well as common applications like Microsoft Word, Powerpoint, and Excel, he covers topics across the entire technology spectrum.
You can read his bio here.