What is the Cornell Method of note-making?

​The Cornell method is a structured way of note-taking that separates the main ideas from the supporting details. It is named after Cornell University, where it was first developed and is widely used by students and professionals alike. The method is particularly effective for organising and studying information for exams, as well as for papers. In this blog post, we will discuss the steps of the Cornell method and how to implement it effectively.
 

• The first step is to divide the note-taking area into three sections: a central ideas column, a cue column, and a summary column. The main ideas column should be located on the right side of the page, and it is used to write the main concepts and key information from the lecture or reading. The cue column should be located at the left side of the page and is used to write questions and cues for reviewing. The summary column should be found at the bottom of the page, and it is used for a summary of the main ideas.

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• The second step is to take notes during the lecture or reading. It is essential to focus on the main ideas and avoid writing down too many details. In the main ideas column, write down the main concepts and key information, using abbreviations and symbols to speed up the process. In the cue column, write questions, keywords, and phrases to help you remember and understand the main ideas.

• The third step is to review and organise the notes soon after the lecture or reading. This is the most important step, as it helps to solidify the information in your mind and to identify any areas that need further clarification. In the summary column, write a brief summary of the main ideas using your own words. In the cue column, answer the questions and fill in the keywords and phrases with details.

 
When studying for exams, it is helpful to use the cue column to make flashcards and to practice active recall. This is the process of trying to remember the information without looking at the notes, and it is a powerful way to improve retention and understanding of the material. Additionally, using different colours or highlighters can help to visually organise and separate different types of information and make it easier to find key points when reviewing.
 
One of the benefits of the Cornell method is that it helps to keep the notes organised and easy to read, which in turn helps with understanding and memorisation. It also helps to keep notes concise and focused on the most important information. It encourages students to question and critically engage with the material they are taking notes on, leading to a deeper understanding of the topic,
 
Another advantage of the Cornell method is that it can also be used for note-taking on readings and research. The main ideas column can be used to record the key arguments, evidence and claims presented by the author, the cue column can be used to ask critical questions about the author's argument, and the summary column can be used to summarise the key points of the reading.
 
However, it's worth noting that it's important to find a note-taking method that works best for you; the Cornell method might not be the best fit for everyone. It's important to experiment and see what methods work best for you to find the most effective way of note-taking.
 
In conclusion, the Cornell method is a structured and effective way of note-taking that separates the main ideas from the supporting details. It helps to organise and study information, promoting deeper understanding and critical engagement with the material. By following the steps of the Cornell method, students can take practical notes and make the most of their university studies. It's important to experiment and see what methods work best for you and to develop a strategy that works for you.