We’ve all fallen victim to waiting last minute to study for a huge exam. Hopefully you’re one of the lucky ones that learns their lesson the first time and plans accordingly. Throughout the years, like many, I’ve developed a system of studying that I find very helpful. Here are a few of my study tips:
1. Read your notes every night
I know it sounds like it won’t be helpful but trust me your brain loves repetition. The more you read and review notes, the easier it will be to completely understand the material.
2. Study in advance
Professors say this all the time and students usually don’t listen but if you study a week or two prior to a test you can break down the material so it won’t be as overwhelming as oppose to if you wait until the night before.
3. Buy a dry erase board
I find this super helpful for my science classes. I like to rewrite/ redraw any major topics we went over in class and pretend like i’m teaching it to a class.
4. Teach topics to someone
A true sign that you’ve mastered material is if you’re able to teach the concept to other people. Work with a study partner and each take turns explaining topics to one another.
5. Study groups
I usually like studying alone but occasional study groups can be super helpful if you have any questions and if you want to practice explaining topics to each other. I recommend making a study group with no more than four people. The more people the easier it is to get off topic.
6. Make study guides
This goes in hand with rewriting notes, which is super good, making study guides is a great way to review material that is important.
This is a brief list of some tips that I find helpful. I’m constantly finding more efficient and effective studying techniques that work for me. Some of these tips may work for you and for some it will not. That’s okay! Finding a study routine is different for everyone. It’s all about trial and error, hope this list can be of help!