Introduction to Cornell Note Taking Method

Taking good notes is an essential skill that every student should possess. It not only helps you to stay focused during class but also serves as a valuable resource for revision when preparing for exams. However, most students struggle with note taking, and as a result, struggle with retention and recall of information.

One of the most effective ways to improve your note taking is by using the Cornell Note Taking Method. This technique was developed by Walter Pauk, an education professor at Cornell University, and has been used by students around the world to improve their note taking skills. Over at Westshore Community College, they have a very good quick guide on how to use this method, making it easy for anyone to start using it.

What is the Cornell Note Taking Method?

The Cornell Note Taking Method is a simple yet powerful technique that involves dividing your note-taking sheet into three sections: a note-taking area, cue column, and summary section. The note-taking area is where you record meaningful notes from the lecture, while the cue column is where you reduce your notes to clues for reviewing and reciting. The summary section is where you summarize the whole page of notes.

One of the benefits of using this method is that the format encourages the five Rs: Record, Reduce, Recite, Reflect, and Review. Each of these steps helps improve your understanding and retention of the material.

Record

The first step of the Cornell Note Taking Method is the record section. This is where you jot down all the important points from the lecture. It’s important to be concise and selective in this step, as you don’t want to end up copying everything the professor says. Instead, focus on key concepts, definitions, and examples.

Reduce

Once you’ve recorded all the important points, the next step is to reduce them to a set of clues for yourself. This is where you create a cue column alongside your notes. Write one or two words that summarize the key idea or concept from that section of notes. This column will help you quickly review your notes and jog your memory about each key point.

Recite

The next step is to recite your notes. This involves verbally repeating what you learned, using your cue column as a guide. Don’t worry about memorizing everything perfectly; instead, focus on the main ideas and concepts. This step will help reinforce the material in your memory and increase your understanding.

Reflect

After you’ve recited your notes, it’s time to reflect on them. This involves taking a few moments to think about what you’ve learned and how it connects with other concepts you’ve covered. Make connections between different topics, and try to relate them to your own experiences. This step will help deepen your understanding and strengthen your recall of the material.

Review

Finally, the last step is to review your notes regularly. This is arguably the most important step, as it ensures you don’t forget what you’ve learned. Ideally, you should review your notes every day, and then again before tests and exams. Make sure you review your cue column regularly, as it will help jog your memory and reduce the amount of time you spend studying.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Cornell Note Taking Method is a simple yet effective technique that can significantly improve your note-taking skills. By dividing your notes into three sections (note-taking area, cue column, and summary section) and following the five Rs (record, reduce, recite, reflect, and review), you can better understand and retain the material. Whether you’re a student or a lifelong learner, this method is worth incorporating into your study routine to help achieve your academic goals.