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Note-taking: a Practical Guide

Cornell method

Dive into the world of effective note-taking strategies.
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The Cornell method


What is the Cornell method?


The Cornell method is a structured note-taking system that allows you to organise your notes to facilitate review and self-assessment.

It involves dividing the note page into three sections:

  1. a note-taking area
  2. a cues/questions column
  3. a summary space.

Taking notes with the Cornell method

Prepare Your Page:

  • Divide it into three sections - the Cue column on the left, a larger Note column on the right, and a Summary area at the bottom.

Note Column:

  • Use the Note column to jot down main ideas, details, and other information during a lecture or while reading.
  • Try to stick to key terms, short phrases, or concise sentences.

Cue column:

  • Write down questions in the cue column based on the notes you’ve taken or any keywords, main ideas, and study prompts.
  • Add to this either afterwards or during a review.
  • These cues serve as prompts for active recall during revision.
  • Use these questions later to test yourself.

    • Summary:

    • At the bottom of the page, summarise your notes, encapsulating the key points and insights in a few sentences.

    Review:

    • Use the Cue column to test your recall of the notes, covering the Note section.
    • Try to recall as much information as possible.

    Cornell method example

    Title

    Cue
    questions

    Main notes

    Key thoughts

    Summary


    When to use the Cornell method

    Ideal for integrating seminar and study notes.

    Encourages you to develop your summarising and synthesising skills.

    Applicable in any lecture or seminar setting.

    Advantages and disadvantages of the Cornell method

    Advantages

    • Organised structure: The layout fosters an organised approach to note-taking, helping you easily categorise and retrieve information later.
    • Enhanced recall: The "Cue Column" provides a quick way for self-testing and memory reinforcement.
    • Summary skill: Writing summaries encourages synthesis and evaluation, making the process not just about capturing information but understanding it.
    • Review-friendly: Because it's so structured, reviewing your notes is a breeze.

    Disadvantages

    • Not visual: Not ideal for visualising information, or for subjects that require diagrams.
    • Time-consuming: Setting up the page requires time, especially adding cues and summaries afterwards.
    • Limited space: Handwritten notes may feel cramped.
    • Requires preparation: Pages must be organised in advance.

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    • Last Updated: Mar 25, 2024 5:30 PM
    • URL: https://subjectguides.york.ac.uk/note-taking
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