Home › Learn › Cornell Method of Note Taking — Explained
The Cornell method is a structured note-taking system developed at Cornell University in the 1950s. It divides the page into three sections — notes, cues, and summary — to improve retention and review. It's still one of the most effective methods for students and professionals.
How the Cornell method works
Divide your page into three sections: a wide notes column, a narrow cue column, and a summary section at the bottom
During the lecture or meeting, take notes in the main column
After the session, write key questions or cues in the left column
At the bottom, write a 2-3 sentence summary of the main points
Review by covering the notes and using the cues to test your memory
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