Start with a free Cornell Notes template

Turn lectures into Cornell Notes with AI prompts

Paste audio summaries or lecture text into these Cornell-ready prompts to auto-generate cues, clean notes, and a bottom summary.

 

How the Cornell method works (and why it sticks)

The Cornell system splits a page into a cue column, main notes, and a summary. During class, capture concise points in the main notes. After class, write cue questions that prompt recall, then finish with a 3–4 sentence summary at the bottom. This structured loop—record → question → summarize—turns passive notes into active review, improving retention and exam performance.

 

Cornell layout at a glance

Cue/Questions (left)

Key terms, prompts, and test-yourself questions

Notes (right)

Concise bullet points and diagrams

Summary (bottom)

the big ideas in 3–4 sentences

From audio to Cornell-ready notes with PolarNotes

Record or upload audio to PolarNotes. The app transcribes, extracts key ideas, suggests cue questions, and drafts a bottom summary—so you spend more time reviewing and less time formatting. Export to Google Docs or Word using our free Cornell templates.

Evidence-based study works. Retrieval practice and spaced review improve test scores and long-term retention.


12-week web journaling trial (15 min, 3×/week)

Systematic reviews show small-to-moderate reductions in anxiety and stress after expressive-writing interventions.

Meta-analysis: expressive writing reduces anxiety & stress (Guo et al., 2023)

Sources: [1]
[2]

FAQ: Cornell Notes Templates & Prompts

What is the cornell notes format?

A cue/question column on the left, concise notes on the right, and a brief summary at the bottom.

Are Cornell Notes better than other notes?

Yes—because they add active recall via cue questions and a summary, which improves memory.

Can I use Cornell notes in word or Google documents?

Yes—use our free Google Docs, Word, Notion, or PDF templates to get the layout instantly.

 

How do I print Cornell Notes?

Download our Printable PDFs (blank or ruled), choose paper size (US Letter or A4), and print.

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