Cornell Notes/Focused Notetaking is the preferred method of notetaking for AVID students. Research shows that it is a more effective method of notetaking because the process requires students to revisit the notes multiple times which, in turn, assists in keeping the information in long-term, rather than short-term, memory.   

2. Reduce - As soon after class as possible, ideas and facts are concisely summarized in the Recall Column. Summarizing clarifies meanings and relationships, reinforces continuity, and strengthens memory.

3. Recite - Most of the page is covered and the student tries to recall as much of the lecture as possible, using only what has been written in the Recall Column. This procedure helps to transfer the facts and ideas to the long term memory.

4. Reflect - The student's own opinion is distilled from the notes. This also has the effect of training the mind to find and categorize vital information, leading to more efficient memorization.

5. Review - The student reviews the notes briefly but regularly. Because of the highly condensed nature of the notes, the student remembers a significant amount of material.

 

To view or print the two-paged Sabers Cornell/Focused Notes, click on this link or use regular note paper.