An important aspect of success in class is being prepared and learning to study effectively. Below are some tips, strategies, and resources curated by students and staff.
Tips for Studying by Yourself
- Make a schedule of when, where, and how long you study.
- Make an agenda of what subjects or concepts you want to study.
- Eliminate distractions by silencing your phone, computer, or other devices that may take away your focus.
- Set goals for yourself. For example: “By the end of this study session, I want to be able to do/understand ________.“
- Find a study location that works best for your learning style. This may be in your room alone or in a coffee shop surrounded by others. Just study wherever you study best!
- Take breaks. Use techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break) to stay focused and maintain productivity.
- Regularly quiz yourself on the material you’re studying to reinforce it into your memory and identify areas that need improvement.
- Reward yourself after a study session. You’ve worked hard, so you deserve to treat yourself!
- Study for 1 or 2 classes per day to maximize comprehension/memorization
- Be consistent in the times you study or at least try to be.
- If you are more of a visual learner, color code your notes.
Tips for Studying with Another Person or Group
- Set clear goals for the study sessions and layout what you want to learn from each study session.
- Hold each other accountable.
- Create a recurring schedule for the study sessions. Find a time that works best for everyone in the group and aim to meet at those regularly scheduled times.
- Assign different topics or sections to each group member and then teach each other. Explaining concepts to others is a great way to reinforce your own understanding.
- Ask questions. Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification or help from your study partners.
- Take breaks. Schedule regular breaks to rest and recharge to prevent academic burnout.
- Review what you’ve learned at the end of each study session and highlight any areas that need further explanation.
- “Teach” someone what you’ve learned. It helps you recite what you’ve learned and allows everyone to add what they know as well.