Back to School Study Tips
Hello Young Scientists!
It’s that time of year again — school time! I know, the first day of school isn’t anyone’s favourite day, but it is an important day. This year is going to be your year, the year you are going to get the marks you have always wanted.
So how do you do that?
Organise your Study space
You need to have the correct work space to sit down and study at. Make sure it caters to your needs. Some people need everything clean and organised, whilste others thrive in a more cluttered environment.
Make sure you have enough light. A desk near a window is the best option, but having a desk lamp is also important for those late-night study sessions.
Remove distractions from your study space. No matter what they may be - computer games, phones, the latest book — they all must be away. Remember; out of sight out of mind.
The best study space is the place where you feel completely comfortable. Whether that is at home, at school or at your local library, your study space needs to be the one that is right for you.
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN!
Plan your time… well, roughly plan out your time. Make -to-do- lists.To-do-lists breaks your tasks down into more manageable chunks. At the start of each day or week, make a list of all the things that you need to do. Then as you complete each one, cross them out. Crossing things off your list will also make you feel fabulous! Another easy way to stay on track is by setting alarms. Alarms regulate your time, keeps you honest and keep your plans on track. Setting time limits for tasks are also great way to stay on track. Finally,
use a wall planner.: Stick a calendar up on your wall, door or mirror so you can see when your classes, exams and assignment/SAC due dates are. You might also find it useful to block out your regular study times and work or sporting commitments on the planner as well.
Discover your learning style
Everyone has their own preferred way of learning. You need to know the way you learn best, so you can apply this to your study.
There are three main learning styles; auditory, visual and tactile.
Auditory learners prefer to learn by listening. The best way for auditory learners to study is to record their notes and listen to the playback.
Visual learners prefer to learn by seeing. The best way to for visual learners to study is to use colours and draw diagrams in their notes. Another good study technique is to use mind maps and flow chats.
Tactile/kinaesthetic learners prefer to learn by doing. The best way for tactile learners to study is to get moving. Walk and read your notes at the same time, or read them on the treadmill. Another technique is to build models of the concepts you need to learn.
Review and revise
Reviewing and revising information is one of the best ways to figure out what you know and what you don’t know. With that crucial information you know how to precede and make the most of your precious study time.
Take a BREAK
Taking regular breaks is just as important as study itself. Some good ways to take a break are making a cup of tea, going for a short walk, doing 10 jumping jacks or, really just anything to take your mind off your study problems for a minute.
Ask for help
There are no stupid questions, just silly mistakes. Asking for help is extremely important, especially when you don’t understand something. You don’t just have to ask your teachers or lecturers, but you can ask your peers and friends or even your brothers and sisters anyone who can help you.
Explain your answers to others
Explaining the content, you’re studying to someone else has been proven to be one of the best ways to easily learn and understand information. You can explain it to anyone; parents, siblings, or even pets — it doesn’t matter. Being able to explain content to others helps you to get a better understanding of it.
Practice makes perfect
Practice with questions and past exam papers or practice tests. These are important as they help you to get used to answering exam-style questions. This will allow you to be well prepared by the time comes to sit that exam or test!
With these tips in mind, go forth and study to make 2018 your year!
By Vanessa Bradbury
Edited by Stephanie Terlato
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