The Cornell Note Taking System: Methods and Benefits for Academic Learning
Overview
This paper explains the Cornell Note Taking System, a structured method for recording and organizing information from lectures. The author describes the three-part page layout and discusses the system's advantages for exam preparation and information retention through active summarization and review.
What this reflection paper covers
- Introduction to notetaking as a learning strategy and listening skill
- Detailed explanation of the Cornell System structure including the three-row format and column divisions
- Personal reflection on the system's benefits for exam preparation, memory reinforcement, and mental preparation
Preview
The Cornel Note Taking System
Your Name
Department of ABC, University – Whitewater
ABC 101: Course Name
Professor (or Dr.) Firstname Lastname
Date
The Cornel Note Taking System
Notetaking is the practice of recording information from different platforms or sources on the go and forms part of the larger body of good listening skills. Students, for instance, can follow a lecture or talk while taking notes as part of the recalling strategy. Essentially, notetaking frees the mind from having to recall everything by highlighting essential parts. While several systems enhance notetaking, with none superior over others, the Cornel Note Taking System is the most preferred.
Typically, the method involves dividing the paper into 3 or 4 parts: three rows, with the middle row more significant than the top and bottom. The first row is the title head, the middle row is where notes are taken, and the lower row covers the summary. The middle row is then divided into two columns, with the column to the left taking ¾ of the space. Here, keywords and comments are recorded, respectively. The system further requires the recorded ideas to be reduced into main points as part of the after-class summary or by linking ideas to visual images. The key points are then recited, reflected upon, and reviewed.
I prefer this method, particularly for exam preparation, because it allows for reflection on the notes by actively summarizing them (or linking to images) in my own words. This aspect reinforces my memory of information involving key concepts or ideas.