Cornell Note-Taking System by Veronica

Cornell Note-Taking System by Veronica - May 2016 Scholarship Essay

I was first introduced to the Cornell Note-Taking System when I was working as an instructional aide at an Elementary school. Yes, I was taken by surprise that I had never heard about this note taking system. I couldn’t believe it myself, how these 3rd grade students that I was working with were using this strategy to assist them with their story elements. Considering how effective it was on their studies I knew that I had to give this a try during my college courses and so I did.

I was surprised to see just how successful this simple note taking system was helping me with my studies. I say simple because, it really is that simple to use. The Cornell Note-Taking System consists of just two columns. The left side is used for any questions you might have about the lecture or for your professor. The right column is where your notes come in place about your lecture for the day. At the bottom of the page, space is left for a brief review or summary on everything that you went over.

This note taking system has been very effective throughout my studies especially for my final exams. It has allowed me to take notes so that I can better retain information that will be helpful in preparing me for any exams to come. It allows me to write down significant facts or dates that the professor might mention throughout the lectures. In addition I have found the summary section at the bottom of the note-taking system extremely beneficial for a quick review right after class every day. This system has allowed me to stay on top of my classes and gave me the opportunity to write down any questions I might have for my professor to review right after class. Before being familiarized to the Cornell Note-Taking System I was finding it very difficult to retain information during lectures and highlighting important facts on my text books just wasn’t sufficient to help me prepare for my exams.

I can humbly say that I find this to be the best way to stay organized when it comes to taking notes, having questions, vocabulary, important facts, and being able to summarize all your information. I am very thankful that I was able to encounter this helpful way of taking effective explicit notes that will forever assist in my education as I know it will to those 3rd grade students and anyone who utilizes this way of taking notes.