You slowly review your notes for the test tomorrow while suddenly thinking that maybe this isn’t the most effective way to study after all. You are just passively reading the information and not seeming to retain most of the knowledge. Here in this article, we’re going to discuss the most effective ways of studying. Furthermore, to actively help you memorize information in this type of situation, so you are prepared for tests and academic success.
1. Retrieval Practice-After learning information, you’ll want to try and retrieve it from your brain so you can be sure you’ve remembered it. To do this, make flashcards on paper or with Quizlet. You can also practice this method with practice tests or questions and then check your answers afterward.
2. Spaced Studying-Instead of cramming for an exam the night before or a couple days before, try reviewing the material you learn in class for the next two days, then after that once per week before a test. It’ll help to keep your brain fresh and help that information get stored in your long-term memory.
3. Feynman Technique-Write what you’re talking about on the top of a sheet of paper. Then, try to explain the concept in simple terms that anyone could understand. When you finish, review the details as written in your notes or textbook to see if you’ve got the idea correct. (If you got anything incorrect, be sure to understand why you got it wrong and what the correct answer is).
4. Mind-Map-Mind mapping is an essential tool you can use to connect ideas in a subject. Begin with the main idea or topic in the center of the page and circle it. Then, draw a line from it to another concept with a circle around it and write how the ideas relate to the connecting line. Continue doing this (you can connect any idea you think of to any “bubble” on the map already) until you can’t think of anything else. (You can then use this as a study tool for future reference!)
5. Short Study Sessions-Instead of trying to study continuously for hours at a time, try focusing on your work diligently for 30 or 40 minutes and then taking a short break of 5 to 10 minutes. It helps you maintain concentration and understand the information that you need to learn.
6. Thinking Out Loud-When doing a practice problem (for example, math), try to speak aloud if you can to say what you’re doing and how it will help you get to the answer. It can help you get better at solving that type of problem because you’ll know what to do to get the answer right with enough practice.
7. Listen to Calming Music-While studying, listen to a type of music that is calming. Listen to music that won’t distract you, such as classical music or jazz. It will help you keep focus and relax you a bit. If you’re stressed, you won’t be able to learn or concentrate as well.
Hopefully, you found some ideas for your next study session from this article that can help you in the future! If you take anything from this article, let it be this: don’t be a passive student, be an active one.
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