The Ultimate Guide to Note-Taking Methods

Effective note-taking is a skill that can dramatically improve your learning and retention. Let's explore the most popular note-taking methods and help you find the one that works best for you.

The Cornell Method

Developed at Cornell University, this system divides your page into three sections.

Layout:

• Cue column (left, 2.5"): Keywords and questions
• Note-taking area (right, 6"): Main notes during lecture
• Summary section (bottom, 2"): Brief summary after class

Best for:

• Lecture-based classes
• Subjects requiring memorization
• Students who like structured systems

How to use:

1. Take notes in the main area during class
2. After class, write cues/questions in left column
3. Cover notes and test yourself using cues
4. Write a summary at the bottom

Mind Mapping

A visual method that shows relationships between concepts.

Structure:

• Central topic in the middle
• Main branches for key themes
• Sub-branches for details
• Use colors, images, and symbols

Best for:

• Visual learners
• Brainstorming sessions
• Subjects with interconnected concepts
• Creative thinking

Tips:

• Use different colors for different themes
• Keep it simple and clear
• Add images or icons
• Review and refine after class

The Outline Method

A hierarchical system using bullet points and indentation.

Structure:

I. Main Topic
   A. Subtopic
      1. Detail
      2. Detail
   B. Subtopic
II. Main Topic

Best for:

• Well-organized lectures
• Subjects with clear hierarchies
• Fast-paced classes
• Digital note-taking

Advantages:

• Easy to review
• Shows relationships clearly
• Works well with most subjects
• Simple to organize

The Charting Method

Organizes information in columns and rows.

Setup:

• Create columns for different categories
• Add rows for each item or concept
• Fill in relevant information

Best for:

• Comparing and contrasting
• Subjects with lots of facts
• Historical timelines
• Scientific classifications

Example uses:

• Comparing theories or approaches
• Tracking historical events
• Organizing vocabulary
• Summarizing research studies

The Sentence Method

Write every new thought or fact on a separate line.

Format:

• Each sentence is numbered
• One idea per line
• Quick and simple
• Easy to review

Best for:

• Fast-paced lectures
• Dense information
• When you need to capture everything
• Later reorganization

Drawbacks:

• Can be overwhelming to review
• Lacks organization
• Requires post-class processing

The Flow Method

Focuses on understanding rather than transcription.

Principles:

• Write in your own words
• Draw connections between ideas
• Use arrows and diagrams
• Focus on concepts, not details

Best for:

• Conceptual subjects
• Students who understand by connecting
• Active learners
• Subjects requiring deep understanding

How to practice:

• Listen more, write less
• Paraphrase in your own words
• Draw relationships
• Add questions and insights

Digital Note-Taking

Using apps and software for notes.

Popular tools:

• QuillGlow (with AI features)
• Notion
• OneNote
• Evernote
• GoodNotes (iPad)

Advantages:

• Easy to organize and search
• Can include multimedia
• Sync across devices
• Easy to share
• AI-powered features

Disadvantages:

• Can be distracting
• Typing may reduce retention
• Requires device and battery
• Learning curve for software

Hybrid Approaches

Combine methods for maximum effectiveness.

Examples:

• Cornell + Mind Mapping
• Outline + Charting
• Digital + Handwritten
• Flow + Cornell

Best Practices for Any Method

Before Class

• Review previous notes
• Preview reading material
• Prepare your materials
• Arrive early

During Class

• Focus on understanding
• Use abbreviations
• Leave space for additions
• Mark unclear points
• Capture examples

After Class

• Review within 24 hours
• Fill in gaps
• Organize and clarify
• Create study materials
• Share with study group

Choosing Your Method

Consider these factors:

Your learning style:

• Visual → Mind mapping, charting
• Auditory → Sentence, outline
• Kinesthetic → Flow, Cornell

Subject type:

• Math/Science → Outline, charting
• Humanities → Cornell, flow
• Languages → Charting, sentence

Lecture pace:

• Fast → Sentence, outline
• Moderate → Cornell, flow
• Slow → Mind mapping, charting

Conclusion

The best note-taking method is the one you'll actually use consistently. Experiment with different approaches, combine techniques, and adapt them to your needs. Remember, effective notes are those that help you learn and remember—not just transcribe. Use QuillGlow's smart notes feature to enhance any method with AI-powered organization and insights.