What is the Q/E/C Method?
Q/E/C is one of the notetaking methods discussed by Cal Newport in his book How to Become a Straight-A Student. The name Q/E/C stands for Question/Evidence/Conclusion.
Notes Column
- Step 1. Write the notes in your own words.
- Things to consider:
- Main points, lesson objectives.
- Bullet points / numbered processes.
- Concise sentences.
- Shorthand symbols.
- Confirm (seen) or contradict (X) your thought.
- Raise a question (?) or Confuse you (??).
- Seems important (!) or answer a question (star)
- Unknown words.
- Abbreviations.
- Paraphrase.
- Outline.
- Leave space between the lines to allow comments when reviewing.
Cue Column
- Step 2. Reduce.
- After class use this column to reduce your notes to:
- Keywords.
- Phrases.
- Concise bullets.
- Summary statements.
- Questions which can:
- Clarify meaning.
- Revel relationships.
- Establish continuity.
- Strengthen recall/memory.
- Reduce your notes within 24-28 hours to improve retention.
Summary Column
- Step 3. Recite.
- Cover your notes and attempt to recall keywords and phrases, and answer questions from the Cue Column.
- Step 4. Reflect.
- Through reflection, you will become a more active and critical thinker by targeting areas that are weak and need further exploration.
- Use your notes to:
- Clarify key points.
- Define terms.
- Connect important concepts.