What is cliff notes meaning?

Cliff Notes are abbreviated and condensed versions of longer pieces of literature, such as novels, plays, or textbooks. They provide a summary of the main points and plot developments found in the original work, as well as insights into the major themes and characters. The notes were first introduced in 1958 by Cliff Hillegass and have since become a widely-used tool for students looking to quickly understand and analyze literature. They are often used as a study aid for school exams, book reports, and other assignments requiring a deep understanding of the text. While some educators criticize Cliff Notes for discouraging students from reading the original works, others argue that they can be a helpful supplement in understanding complex literary works.