What is the Cornell Method, How to Take Fast Notes?

The Cornell Method is a popular note-taking system that was developed by Walter Pauk, an education professor at Cornell University. This method is designed to help students take fast and effective notes during lectures, discussions, and other learning activities.

The Cornell Method is based on a simple three-step process: record, reduce, and review. In this method, students divide their note-taking page into three sections: a main note-taking section, a cue column, and a summary section. The main note-taking section is where students record the main ideas, concepts, and details of the lecture or discussion. The cue column is where students write down questions, keywords, and other cues that will help them remember and review the material later. The summary section is where students summarize the main points of the lecture or discussion in their own words.

To take fast notes using the Cornell Method, students should follow these steps:

Step 1: Record

During the lecture or discussion, students should focus on recording the main ideas, concepts, and details in the main note-taking section of their page. They should use abbreviations, symbols, and shorthand to write down the information quickly and efficiently. They should also use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to organize their notes and make them easier to read and review later.

Step 2: Reduce

After the lecture or discussion, students should review their notes and identify the most important information. They should then transfer this information to the summary section of their page, using their own words to summarize the main points. This process of reducing the information helps students to better understand and remember the material.

Step 3: Review

Finally, students should review their notes regularly to reinforce their understanding and retention of the material. They should use the cue column to quiz themselves on the material, using the questions and keywords they wrote down during the lecture or discussion. They should also use the summary section to review the main points of the material and to identify any areas where they need further study or clarification.

The Cornell Method is a highly effective note-taking system that can help students to take fast and effective notes during lectures, discussions, and other learning activities. By following the simple three-step process of record, reduce, and review, students can improve their understanding and retention of the material, and achieve greater success in their academic and professional pursuits.