The Cornell note-taking is a method for organizing and summarizing information during lectures or readings. It involves dividing a piece of paper into three sections: one for main points, one for note-taking, and one for summarizing and reviewing.
This system helps to improve retention and comprehension of the material.
How to take Cornell notes?
There are next steps of using the Cornell method:
- Divide a sheet of paper into three sections: one for main ideas, one for note-taking, and one for summarizing and reviewing.
- During a lecture or reading, write the main ideas or key concepts in the left-hand column.
- In the right-hand column, take detailed notes on the main ideas, using abbreviations and symbols to save space.
- After the lecture or reading, review your notes and summarize the main ideas in the bottom section of the paper. This section is called the "cue column"
- As you review your notes later, use the cue column to help refresh your memory of the main ideas and to check if you understand the material.
- Practice active recall by covering up the notes and cue column and try to recall the main ideas.
- Repeat the process for each lecture or reading, and continue to review and summarize the material over time. This will help to improve retention and comprehension.
It's worth noting that the Cornell note-taking system is a guide, you can adjust it to your needs and preferences.