When outlining your paper for Cornell notes, what is the left column designated for?

The left column in Cornell notes is designated for keywords. This format is designed to encourage active engagement with the material. The keywords typically represent the main ideas or significant terms from the notes taken on the right side. By summarizing concepts with keywords, students can create a quick reference guide that aids in review and recall, making it easier to study and understand core principles. This technique enhances comprehension and retention, as it forces the student to distill information into essential terms that encapsulate broader themes discussed in the right side of the notes.

In contrast, the right side is generally used for more detailed notes, summaries, or explanations related to those keywords, fostering a deeper understanding of the content as students interact with both columns during their study sessions.