Studying presents most students with challenges, where a busy life or work obligations can make class assignments difficult to focus on. While most people develop their own ways of studying over time, everyone can improve their study skills. Here are a few ways you can take your studying to the next level.
1. Take/Review Notes
Always take notes, whether in class or doing homework. You will absorb details and key points more quickly by writing them down, an act that is equivalent to saying it five times. If you miss a class, make sure you recover what you’ve missed and review any notes your classmates will share.
2. Eliminate Distractions
The most common distraction people face is technology. While the internet offers unparalleled
help in finding information, it is the ultimate distraction as well. Stick to school websites, turn off your phone or put it in airplane mode, and disconnect from the internet once you have everything you need.
3.Schedule Studying
Set a time every day to study, just like you do for exercise, sleep, and other activities. Pick an ideal place for your studying, make an appointment on your calendar, and keep it.
4. Organize
Clutter leads to distractions. Take the time early on to organize your bag, binders, and papers. Organize notes and handouts into separate folders. Colors work as a great organizing system.
5. Study All the Time
If you have a chance to take extra class time to study, do it. If a TA is available, schedule tutoring time. If the school offers a study aid program, enroll. Set yourself up for success by putting in the effort to do so.
6. Rest
Your brain needs rest just like your muscles do to recover from a workout. Rest improves the brain’s ability to absorb new information and recall it. Sometimes all-nighters happen, but limit them, particularly before tests. Your efficiency and productivity decreases the longer you put off getting rest.
7. Find a Partner
A study partner keeps you accountable, offers insights into the same material, and provides a quiz partner. Schools usually have study groups for students to join. If that doesn’t work, ask a classmate.
8. Exercise
Combat anxiety and stress by incorporating regular exercise into your day. Beyond the outlet for your emotions, exercise releases endorphins that help you relax and focus. Best of all, you can do it for free. If you insist on using a gym, see if the school has one you can use, or if the local gyms offer discounts for students.
9. Eat Well
Proper nutrition bolsters your ability to learn. A proper diet gives your body all the nutrients it needs to function at peak efficiency. It also reduces your dependence on caffeine and simple carbohydrates to keep going. If you do get a craving, it could indicate a nutrient deficiency. If it’s boredom hunger, try eating a handful of soy nuts and drinking a glass of water satisfy it.
10. Ask for Help
If you are struggling, ask for help. Tutors, professors and classmates can all help you, but only if they know you need it. You may need to make sure you understand a concept, or could simply use help staying accountable while managing your college life. Either way, you don’t have to go it alone.
Additional Resources:
https://everydaypowerblog.com/2017/09/04/study-habits-for-college-students/
http://blog.post.edu/2017/08/six-proven-successful-study-tips-for-college-students/
https://www.collegecovered.com/campus-life/academics/best-study-tips-from-successful-college-students/
https://thecollegeinvestor.com/18649/effective-study-tips-exam-preparation/
https://www.discover.com/student-loans/college-planning/best-study-hacks-college.html
https://www.ecpi.edu/blog/top-10-effective-study-habits-college-students
http://centuracollege.edu/blog/10-effective-study-habits-for-college-students/
