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Studying is intimidating for a lot of students, but it doesn't have to be. Here are some different strategies for getting started. This should help you find your studying style. Some people need memorization techniques, others need a structured way to explain a topic, some people enjoy rewriting/organizing their notes, and some just need a way to effectively take breaks.
The Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique
The Pomodoro Technique is a simple studying cycle where you time your studying and your breaks which can help you stay focused longer.
If you struggle with the break try to make a list of small productive tasks like sending a quick email, making a grocery list, crossing off you completed work, queueing music for the next 25 minutes
If your still struggling try walking around during the break.
A snack break can also keep you away from things that might be difficult to spend only five minutes on.
If you find that you get stuck on social media or games that last more than the allotted 5 minutes then block those sites when you first come in or turn off your phone all together when you study.
Leitner Study System
Leitner Study System
The Leitner System is similar to the learn function on Quizlet; however, since it does not requires a paid membership I thought I would share the option for students.
All you need to do is make is flashcards for your exam. Then you start to create different piles as you go through them.
Pile 1: is flashcards you look at every day because you have no clue what the term means.
Pile 2: is flashcards you look at every other day because you recognize the term and sometimes you can get it right but its mostly a coin toss.
Pile 3: is flashcards you look at each week because you know the term and just want it to stay fresh in your brain.
Feynman Technique
Feynman Technique
The Feynman Technique is a great strategy especially for exams with essay questions. Feynman Technique has you simplify a topic into your own words to teach someone else about it. This can help you to think critically about a topic we had just memorized in the past. You can write this explanation down or to simplify it talk out loud. You can pretend a conversation. This can be helpful with pick out gaps in your explanation.
Study Platforms
Study Platforms
Quizlet
Quizlet can be a great platform for going over terms and practicing recall. It has new features like magic notes which will allow you to upload your notes and create flashcards from them. This can be a great way to help cut down on time it takes to prepare resources. I love to connect this strategy with answering key concept in paragraph form because it generally helps you to prepare for many types of questions. One thing to keep in mind with quizlet is that you need a paid account to access the learn feature which may not be possible for each student in that case I suggest looking at the Leitner system above.
Reorganizing Notes
Reorganizing Notes
Brain Dumps
Brain Dumps
Brain dumps can be an effective way to test your knowledge on a topic. The idea is that you pick a chapter, section, concept and write everything you know about it down. Brain dumps work well when you set a timer. Once you finish writing compare to your notes or text book filling in missing information and highlighting important information.
Testing Sheet
Testing Sheet
A testing sheet is a notecard/paper that covers all the key concepts for a test. It can include diagrams, terms and definitions, formulas, and more. Whether you are allowed to use this on the test or not it can be incredibly helpful for reviewing the what you know will be on the test. A testing sheet can also show you gaps you might have with the material.
Go to note taking page to see other ways to reorganize your notes.
Study Tips & Tricks
Study Tips & Tricks
Below is more material outlining best ways to study. Remember studying doesn't need to be challenging it just needs to be engaging. If you are struggling with when or where you are going to study then check out the exam planning page or book an appointment with an academic coach.
Study Skills--35-Quick-Study-Tips.pdfWIN_20240620_11_33_26_Pro.mp4Study Skills--Next Step Learning - practice!.pdfPage updated
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