Study Suggestions

Studying can be challenging and might require different things for different courses or professors. Here are some ideas on how to study for really all of your classes. Keep in mind that we all learn differently. So, you need to figure out what works well for you. Remember that one of the best ways to really learn information is to "put your hands on it" at least three times. So, try to find three ways to help you go over the material. 

1. The first thing you should do is Get. A. Planner. Or a calender or something. Digital, paper, whatever! Put your schedule in there. I highly recommend even scheduling in study time for each of your classes, and stick to it!! 

2. I know students don't like to read, but I highly recommend it! Read the chapter before each class. This will help as the material won't be completely foreign to you when I present it. 

3. Do the Inquizitive assignments as we go along. Don't just wait for the due dates, work on them a little each day. 

4. Review and/or re-write your notes within 24 hours of lecture. Lecture will be fresh in your mind and this will reinforce the material. If you type notes, I highly recommend re-writing them by hand! Most people learn better by writing notes by hand. In either case, answer the relevant study guide questions at this time as well. 

5. If when reviewing your notes you don't understand something, go to the book and re-read (or read for the first time) that section. Re-write your notes with the book in mind. If that still doesn't help, ask your question in class or come to office hours. I'm here to help! 

6. You may like recording the audio from lecture and re-listen to the lecture as you review your notes. Or while you're doing the dishes, driving (hopefully, I don't put you to sleep!), or taking a run, or whatever time you have. For some, this is really helpful! 

7. Make flashcards and quiz yourself on the topics or definitions. 

8. Lab studying: Use many of the same techniques listed above. Mostly, practice, practice, practice! You'll want to spend time outside of class working and studying your specimens. 

9. There are many other tools and techniques that work for people. These are some that work well for me and others I know. The real key is consistency. Study for your courses every week, not just right before the exam.