The easiest way to cut corn kernels off the cob is to chop one end of the cob off so it can sit flat against a surface while keeping the other side intact to use as a handle. Place the cob flat side down into a bowl or over a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut downward as close to the base of the kernels as you can. Fluff the corn kernels in the bowl or on the cutting board to break them apart if needed. You can also cut the cob in half before slicing the kernels off to work in smaller sections.