To take effective Cornell notes in Mr. Schum's class, leave 2 1/2 inches of space on the left and 6 inches on the right. Write the date and title at the top. Under each PowerPoint slide subject, take notes in the right column. Draw a line after the first subject. In the left column, illustrate key ideas, write keywords and phrases, and note questions. Finally, write a summary paragraph at the end to consolidate the information.