The Cornell Note Taking Method is a system for taking, organising, and reviewing notes. It was developed by Walter Pauk, an education professor at Cornell University, in the 1950s. The Cornell Note Taking Method is simple to use, but it is very effective for improving comprehension and retention.
To use the Cornell Note Taking Method, divide your page into three sections:
- Note Taking Area: This is the largest section, and it is where you will record the main points of the lecture or reading.
- Cue Column: This is a narrower column on the left side of the page. It is where you will write keywords, questions, and other cues to help you remember the information in the Note Taking Area.
- Summary: This is a section at the bottom of the page where you will write a brief summary of the main points of the lecture or reading.
To take notes using the Cornell Note Taking Method, follow these steps:
- Record the main points of the lecture or reading in the Note Taking Area. Be sure to use your own words and to write in a clear and concise manner.
- As you are taking notes, start to think about keywords, questions, and other cues that will help you remember the information. Write these down in the Cue Column.
- After the lecture or reading, review your notes and summarise the main points in your own words in the Summary section.
The Cornell Note Taking Method is an effective way to take notes because it requires you to actively engage with the material. As you are taking notes, you are forced to think about the main points and to try to understand the information. This helps to improve comprehension and retention.
Here are some additional tips for using the Cornell Note Taking Method:
- Use abbreviations and symbols. This will help you to write down notes more quickly and efficiently.
- Leave space between your notes. This will make it easier to review and add to your notes later on.
- Use different colors. This can help you to organise your notes and to make them more visually appealing.
- Review your notes regularly. This will help you to remember the information and to identify any areas where you need further clarification.
The Cornell Note Taking Method is a versatile note-taking method that can be used in a variety of settings, including classrooms, meetings, and personal study sessions. It is a simple but effective way to improve comprehension and retention.