Study Strategies

As the 2018–2019 school year starts up, it may feel hard to back into the swing of things. However, it is important to develop good study habits early in the year. The key to studying is finding out what works best for you. Some people are visual learners, other auditory, many tactile, and some all of the above. Below are some important points to remember about studying, and some of the best ways to get that 4.0.

• Schedule — creating a study schedule will help you stay organized and monopolizing your time. Try and make it a few days before quizzes, a week-two weeks before tests, a month or so before midterms, and a few months before finals. Scheduling time to each subject area will ensure you are well prepared for all areas, and give you more time in the days leading up to work on problem areas. Long-term studying can also help with long-term learning, meaning you will remember it longer.
• Notes — the notes you take in class can be your most valuable tool if you use them wisely. Studies have proven that writing in colors can aid in memorization, so try and introduce some colored pens and highlighters into your not taking. Additionally, rewriting notes after class can help with memorization, and writing out summaries of sections can help further understanding. Visual methods of note taking such as mind maps can be a good strategy for visual learners.
• Flashcards — great for auditory, tactile, and visual learners alike, flashcards are great for term-based content, such as foreign language classes. Auditory learners may try and read the term and definition as they go. Tactile learners may try and illustrate their cards or simply learn from creating them, and visual learners get the benefit of seeing the term written. Quizlet is a great resource for extra practice or eco-conscious learners.
• Balance — everything in moderation. Studying all day every day may sound like it will get you the “A” but realistically, it will burn you out faster and take away from other subjects. Try taking breaks every once in a while to walk around, stretch, and maybe work on something else for a little while for a change of pace.
• Not studying — sometimes the best way to study, is to not study at all. Again, balance is key. It can be infinite times better for you to get an extra half hour of sleep or to go for a run or to just take a break than to get an extra half hour in of practice problems. If you feel you need it, by all means, do it, but the day before an exam or a stress-causing test, try and take a couple minutes for yourself.
• Learn from yourself — look back at past tests and exams, and see what went wrong, and how you can improve. Also, look at what worked. If listening to music distracted you, or making flashcards helped you learn faster than Quizlet, use that information to better study this time around.
• Focus — everyone has different preferences, but try and be in as focused of an environment as possible. This can mean cleaning your desk, studying in a coffee shop, utilizing the tables of a library, even listening to music. Try and limit distractions, such as technology. Turning off your phone or turning off wifi (if not needed) can strengthen focus and create a more successful learning environment.
• Cramming — cramming is not a great strategy and it’s time we come to terms with that. Sure it is tempting, but there are many options that are less stressful, and more beneficial in the long run.
• Study groups — studying with people can be very beneficial. Hearing what helps them, and getting the opportunity to explain content to others and have it explained to you can be extremely helpful. Whether you are with your friends or classmates, collaborative efforts in learning content are great for learning as well as meeting people in classes (especially if you are at a new school!).