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Anecdotal Notes Template

This anecdotal notes template has two pages. Page one is a running log with columns for when and where, the student, what you saw and heard, and a next step. Page two is a class at a glance, with a numbered box for each student.

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Grade Level
All Grades
Pages
2
Formats
PDF, Google Docs, Word
Paper Size
US Letter and A4
Checked By
Milo, Classroom Teacher
Last Updated
October 2026
Works with the EMStudio Gradebook. Write, organize and reuse your plans online.

Anecdotal Notes Template Example

A kindergarten teacher's week of notes on counting, written as facts with a next step for each child.

Anecdotal notes from a kindergarten classroom over one week, focused on counting and number sense: the date and setting, the child, what the teacher saw and heard in their exact words, and a next step for each.

What's in the Anecdotal Notes Template

A Log of Short Observations

Four columns: When and Where, Student, What I Saw and Heard, and Next Step.

One Focus per Week

Fields for the class, observer, focus and week, so every note is about one thing.

Class at a Glance

Page two has 28 numbered boxes for students, so an empty box shows who you have not seen.

Editable Versions

Type into the Word, Google Docs or PDF file, in US Letter or A4, or print it.

How to Use the Anecdotal Notes Template

  1. Choose a Focus

    Write the class, your name, the week and one thing to watch for, such as counting or taking turns.

  2. Number the Boxes

    On page two, write each student's name beside a box number. Roster numbers work.

  3. Write What You See

    Jot the time and place, the student, and what they said or did, in their own words if you can.

  4. Add the Next Step

    While it is fresh, write the next step, such as a small group or a question to ask tomorrow.

  5. Check the Empty Boxes

    Add a quick note in each student's box on page two, and plan to watch the empty ones next.

Anecdotal Notes Questions

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