Cornell Method of Note Taking ✍️: How To Take Better Notes This Year

The Cornell method of note taking involves dividing your notes into three sections: cue column, note-taking column, and summary section.

I know you’re excited about the new semester and all the new learning opportunities it’ll bring.

But if you want to succeed in your classes, there’s one thing you need to do right away: start taking better notes.

Cornell notes is a simple yet powerful method of note-taking. It started to become popular in the 1960s.

And until today, many students are still using this note-taking method — including me. I mean I used it when I was still in college 😅.

So if you want to learn how to take better notes, read on.

What Is The Cornell Method Of Note Taking?

Cornell notes is a note-taking technique developed by Walter Pauk at Cornell University back in the 1950s. This method became renowned for its ability to help students like you take better notes during lectures.

Here’s the fascinating backstory:

Pauk, a brilliant mind at Cornell University, developed the Cornell Method, also known as the Cornell Way. He aims to improve the way students capture lecture content.

The sheer effectiveness of his technique quickly gained national popularity after he showcased it in his book, How to Study in College (1962) [1].

The official name of this study method is Cornell Note-Taking System. However, many people still refer to it simply as “Cornell Notes.” 

How To Take Cornell Notes?

So, what’s the secret behind the Cornell Method?

The idea behind the Cornell method of note taking is to divide your note page into three sections: the cue column, the note-taking column, and the summary section. This layout provides a framework for capturing and reviewing information effectively.

Let’s walk through each section:

Note-taking column

The largest section of your page, positioned to the right is for taking your detailed notes.

This is your chance to record key concepts, examples, and any other relevant information.

The note-taking column is where you write down your main notes during a lecture or while studying.

It’s important to focus on capturing the key ideas, essential details, and relevant information, rather than trying to transcribe everything word for word.

Think of the note-taking column as a sieve that filters out the important grains from a mixture. 

Just as a sieve separates and retains the valuable grains while letting go of the unwanted debris. The note-taking column allows you to extract and retain the most important points from the sea of information.

The goal is to engage actively with the material and extract the most important points.

What to include in the note-taking column?

Now, there are no specific rules on what to include in these columns. It depends on how you learn best, so you should write down whatever is relevant and helpful to you.

But here are some suggestions:

• Main points
• Essential details (facts and statistics)
• Definitions
• Formulas
• Important quotes from the material or your instructor
• Key concepts and terms
• Examples
• Diagrams or pictures
• Important dates

Cue column

Now, the cue column is where things get interesting.

To the left of your note page, you’ll find the cue column. This is where you’ll jot down important cues or keywords and questions related to the lecture content.

These cues act as triggers for your memory, helping you recall the content more easily when you review your notes later. You can write questions, headings, or keywords that summarize the information in the note-taking column.

Think of the cue column as a map of your notes, showing you the most important landmarks and guiding you towards your destination. 

Just as a map provides a visual representation of key locations and directions. The cue column provides cues or keywords that summarize the content of your notes and guide you towards the most important information.

You can write cues on this column during or after your class.

What to include in the cue column?

• Main idea
• Keywords or cues
• Questions
• Study prompts

Summary section

Last but not least, you have the summary section at the bottom of the page.

After you finish taking notes, take a few moments to summarize the main points and concepts covered in the lecture or reading.

By expressing the main ideas in your own words, you reinforce your understanding of the material and create a handy, concise reference for a quick review.

Think of the summary section as a key takeaway from a movie – a memorable and impactful moment that sticks with you long after the credits roll. 

Just as a movie’s key takeaway leaves a lasting impression.

The summary section allows you to distill the most important points and concepts from your notes into a memorable and concise reference.

What to include in the summary section?

• What did you learn? (in your own words)

What Makes Cornell Note-Taking So Effective?

So, what makes Cornell note-taking so effective? 

Intentional note-taking

Here’s the thing: Cornell note-taking moves beyond passive observation. You become an active participant in the learning process. 

If you mindlessly transcribe every word like you used to, will you learn anything?  

Maybe. But not as much as you could have if you are actively involved.  

This note-taking process requires you to analyze and interpret the material, ultimately improving your understanding and retention.

Structured notes

Imagine this: Your teacher announced a surprise quiz and you have 5 minutes to quickly review your notes.  You open your notebook and what you get is a chaotic array of notes and scribbles.  

You have no idea where to start. Or what the most important bits are.  

It adds to your panic and makes the process of learning even harder.   

But what if your notes were structured? 

You know where to find the most important bits. And you can create a clear path for your brain to follow.  

This is what structured notes do for you. Structured notes are like a road map for your brain.  They help you learn faster and retain information better.  

Cornell notes can also help you visualize what your notes look like in your mind’s eye and easily remember what you’ve written down.  

Well, that’s what I usually do and it works for me.  

The cues you jot down in the left column of your Cornell notes are like little memory triggers. When you review your notes, they’ll help you recall the associated information effortlessly.

Active learning

The summary section of your notes should be a summary of what you’ve learned.  

It’s not just a list of facts. But rather your analysis of the material in question. 

If you write the summary section in your own words, you’ll be able to understand the information on a deeper level. And recall it more easily.  

Isn’t that the whole point of studying?  

Pros And Cons Of Cornell Notes

Pros

• Provides a clear framework for capturing and reviewing information effectively.
• Promotes active engagement during lectures or study sessions.
• Leads to better comprehension and retention.
• Your review process becomes more efficient and focused.
• Provides a quick overview of the entire page, saving you time when revisiting your notes.
• You can personalize it to fit your learning style.

Cons

• Requires initial effort and time to set up the layout and fill in the sections during lectures or study sessions.
• The limited space may feel constraining for some.
• It may not suit everyone’s note-taking preferences.

Cornell Notes Template

If you are looking for Cornell notes template, click the links below to download a free template.

• cornell notes template google docs / cornell notes template word
• cornell notes template pdf

You can also do it on any paper. Just divide it into three sections by drawing a line.

What Would I Use The Cornell Method For?

Lectures and Classes

If you’re a student attending lectures or participating in classroom discussions, the Cornell Method is your secret weapon.

Its structured organization allows you to capture the main points and important details in the note-taking column.

While the cue column helps you jot down valuable cues or keywords. And don’t forget that handy summary section to wrap it all up neatly!

Reading and Research

Do you find yourself drowning in a sea of information while reading or conducting research?

Well, fear not, because the Cornell method comes to the rescue once again. It helps you organize your notes in a systematic way, making it easier to revisit and study the material later on.

You can highlight key concepts, summarize findings, and create a valuable resource for future reference.

Meeting and Work Sessions

Moving beyond academia, the Cornell Method is equally applicable in professional settings. Picture yourself in a meeting or conference.

With the Cornell Method, you can capture crucial discussions, action items, and important takeaways. The structured layout ensures that you stay on top of your tasks and follow up effectively.

What Are The Three Parts Of Effective Note Taking?

When it comes to effective note-taking, we can break it down into three key components: observing, recording, and reviewing.

1. Observing
   The first part of effective note-taking is all about being an active observer. It’s all about being fully present and engaged at the moment.
   
   Whether you’re in a lecture, reading a book, or attending a meeting, actively observe and listen for the main ideas, key points, and important details. This step sets the stage for capturing valuable information.

2. Recording
   Next comes the recording part. This is where you transform your observations into written or visual form.
   
   Choose a note-taking method. Whether it’s writing by hand, typing on a device, or a combination of both. Capture the key information, ideas, and concepts that you observed, using your own words to ensure understanding.

3. Reviewing
   But note-taking doesn’t end there! The third part is reviewing—an often underestimated yet vital step.
   
   Set aside dedicated time to revisit and review your notes regularly. This helps reinforce your understanding, fill in any gaps, and strengthen your memory.

Tips On How To Take Good Notes

• Be prepared: Before you even begin taking notes, make sure you come prepared. Familiarize yourself with the topic or material beforehand. So you have a basic understanding of what’s going on.
  
• Be selective: Avoid the temptation to write down every single word. Train yourself to actively listen and identify the most important information to record.
  
• Use your own words: Instead of blindly copying what’s being said or written, try to rephrase the information using your own words. 
  
• Listen actively: Effective note-taking isn’t just about jotting down every word. Train your ears to capture the essence of what’s being said. Rather than getting bogged down by every single sentence.
  
• Organize and structure: Create a clear and logical structure for your notes. Utilize headings, subheadings, and bullet points to organize information into bite-sized, scannable chunks.
  
• Use a note-taking system: Consider adopting a note-taking system. The Cornell Method, outlined earlier, is one example. Other systems like mind mapping or the outline method may also resonate with your style. 
  
• Simplify: While taking notes, aim for simplicity. Use your own words to rephrase complex concepts and explanations. 
  
• Use visual aids: Add visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and graphs, to help illustrate complex concepts.  
  
• Review and revise: Regularly review and revise your notes to reinforce your understanding and memory.
  
• Personalize your notes: Make your notes your own by adding personal touches. Use different colors, highlighters, or symbols to emphasize key points or ideas. 
  
• Seek clarity: If you encounter unclear or confusing information during lectures or readings, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification.
  
• Practice, practice, practice: Like any skill, note-taking improves with practice. Challenge yourself to take notes regularly, even during everyday activities like watching educational videos or while reading.

Cornell Method Of Note-Taking (FAQs)

What to do next?

Now that you have one of the most popular note-taking methods in your toolkit, it’s time to put it into practice.

The best way to prove if the Cornell method is effective for you is to give it a try. After all, if you don’t test drive the car before buying it, how will you know if it’s the right choice for you?

Don’t worry if you don’t get it right away. You can go back to this Cornell method guide as many times as you want until you get the hang of it.

So be brave, give it a try, and remember that practice makes perfect.

If you also need some guides to being productive, check out our productivity tips section and save some time for yourself.