The Cornell Note-Taking Method is a systematic approach to note-taking that seamlessly integrates into your summarisation process, you not only make more organised and structured notes but also directly build towards active memory retention. This combination of techniques makes it a highly effective during studying. Note-taking is a fundamental skill for academic success, and mastering a systematic approach can significantly enhance learning outcomes. One such method that has gained widespread acclaim is the Cornell Note-Taking Method. In this article, we will discuss the intricacies of the Cornell Method.
Benefits of the Cornell Method
The Cornell Method offers a range of benefits that go beyond mere organisation. By structuring your notes into distinct sections, you can improve comprehension, retention, and critical thinking skills. Research has shown that actively engaging with the material through cue generation and summarisation fosters deeper understanding and enhances long-term memory retention.
Customisation and Adaptation
One of the key strengths of the Cornell Method lies in its flexibility and adaptability to individual preferences and learning styles. You can customise the size of the columns, experiment with different formats (e.g., digital, or handwritten), and incorporate colour-coding or symbols to suit your personal preferences. By tailoring the method to your preferences, you are enhancing your engagement and motivation, leading to more effective note-taking practices.
Integration with Technology
In today's digital age, technology plays a crucial role in education, and note-taking is no exception. You can leverage a variety of digital tools and apps to implement the Cornell Method seamlessly. From note-taking apps with built-in Cornell templates to software that supports active learning techniques, the possibilities are endless. By using your laptop or tablet, you can streamline your note-taking process and access your notes anytime, anywhere. But for more optimal retention it still is highly recommended to keep on paper writing your notes. Maybe an idea, to handwrite your notes, and take a picture of it with your notes to digitalise them, so you have the same result, have them handy any time, anywhere.
Active Learning Techniques
At the heart of the Cornell Method are active learning techniques that promote deeper engagement with the material. Generating cues or questions in the left-hand column encourages you to actively process information and make connections between concepts. Summarising the key points at the bottom of the page requires you to synthesise information and articulate your understanding of the theory in your own words. These activities not only reinforce learning but also cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Long-Term Retention and Spaced Repetition
Maintaining long-term retention of the material is essential for success, and this method
can help you achieve your study goals. By incorporating spaced repetition and regular review into your study routines, you can reinforce learning and prevent forgetting. Periodically revisiting your notes, covering the right column to test your memory, and reviewing the summary at the bottom of the page are effective strategies for consolidating knowledge over time. If you want to know more about spaced repetition, you might want to check out my article about Ebbinghaus’s Forgetting Curve.
Feeling Your Notes are Going Nowhere?
While the Cornell Method offers your numerous benefits, you may encounter challenges such as difficulty with summarising or maintaining consistent in your notes. To overcome these challenges, you can implement practical strategies such as breaking down complex information into smaller chunks, setting realistic goals, and seeking support from peers or instructors. To help you create a manageable study to-do list, you can read this article about how to chunk down your information when it is becoming too overwhelming.
How To Set Up Your Notes According to the Cornell-Method
Begin by dividing your note-taking page into three sections: a narrow left-hand column (about 30% in width op the page), a wider right-hand column, and a section at the bottom (about 30 in hight of the page) for summarising. You can use lined paper and use a ruler, but you can make it even easier for yourself to write your notes on squared paper. Below I’ll explain what to write on which part of the divided page.
1. Top: Create Your Header
Here you can put basic details from your class or study moment, you can add the topic of your
notes, even a specific subject you are researching for your paper for instance. This way, you have one overview of what these specific notes entail.
2. Left: The Cue Column
During your process of notetaking, use the left-hand column to create certain cues or questions – which I later like to use to create my flash cards – which corresponds to the
material in the right column. These cues should be brief and serve as prompts for reviewing and testing your knowledge later. For example, if your right column notes discuss "Mind Mapping," your cue in the left column might be "Benefits of Mind Mapping?" Or to give a wine related example: if your right column notes discuss "Grape Varietals in Jumilla," your cue in
the left column could be "What is the most grown varietal in Jumilla." It can be anything, as long as it benefits your thinking process and recollection of your thoughts and studies.
3. Right: The Note-Taking Column
As you attend lectures, webinars, read textbooks or engage with study materials you write
down key points, concepts, and relevant details in the right-hand column, the note-taking column. Keep your notes concise and focused on the main ideas.
4. Bottom: Write Your Summary
Once you've completed your initial notes, use the cues (on the left) to test your understanding. Cover the notes (on the right) and attempt to answer the questions or prompts on the left solely from memory. This retrieval practice strengthens your retention and comprehension. When you are done reviewing your cues and attempts to answer them from memory, you move on to the bottom section of your page. Now you create a summary of the entire page's content, in your own words.
It is All About Repetition
Periodically revisit your notes. Cover the right column and use the cues to challenge your memory. Then, check your answers in the right column. Finally, review the summary at the bottom for a quick overview of the entire topic. It works almost the same as using flashcards. That is why I like to use the right column for note taking and summarising, and the left column more where I ask questions or put in cues that revert to the notes. Or I put in my thoughts on things I do have to look further into when I want to understand something more thoroughly.
The Cornell Note-Taking Method is a powerful tool for enhancing learning outcomes and academic success. By leveraging its benefits, customizing it to individual needs, integrating technology, and employing active learning techniques, students can maximise their note-taking efficiency and retention. With diligent practice and commitment, students can unlock the full potential of the Cornell Method and embark on a journey of continuous learning and growth.
Resources
Pedagogical Research, “The Effect Of The Cornell-Method on the Quality of […] Performance.”, 08, 2023 – Accessed at 27 February 2024
Cornell University, “Cornell Note Taking System”,– Accessed at 27 February 2024