How should you review Cornell notes to reinforce learning?

• A. Read only the summary first
• B. Cover the notes with the cues and quiz yourself
• C. Reread notes aloud without cues
• D. Copy notes again for memorization

Answer: (B)

The key idea is using retrieval practice with the cues in your Cornell notes. After you’ve taken notes, you should test yourself by covering the notes and using the cues column to prompt recall. Try to answer from memory, then uncover the notes to check what you got right or where you’re hazy. This active recall strengthens memory and helps you see exactly what you still need to review.

This approach is more effective than just reading the summary first or rereading the notes aloud without a prompt, because those methods are passive and don’t force you to retrieve information from memory. It’s also better than copying the notes again, which mainly reinforces familiarity rather than retrieval.

If you miss something, review that part of the notes, refine your cues, and try again later. Spacing these self-tests over time further boosts retention.