By Arren Joseph-White
Developing study habits can be hard for students. In fact, it can feel impossible. Luckily, we live in an age where people have come up with solutions and are willing to provide their wisdom. The Learning Center at the University of North Carolina [at Chapel Hill] has a list of study habits and practices to help better studying habits. To find more information, head to their website [https://learningcenter.unc.edu]. Specifically, their ‘Studying 101’ page in the ‘Tips & Tools’ section of their website.
Reading is not studying
Just reading the content and nothing else can lead to forgetting it quickly. It does not engage you in the content and re-reading is just the same; it leads to forgetfulness. Properly studying means doing things like creating a study guide, making examples, and working out problems. Reading is like a precursor to studying, because learning comes from making connections and engaging in information.
Remember the ‘Study Cycle’
Developed by Frank Christ, the Study Cycle breaks down the different parts of studying: previewing lessons, going to class, reviewing content, and checking your understanding at the end of studying. Each stage is important, missing out on something can make you fall behind by missing key opportunities to absorb information.
Spacing out is good
Spacing out your study time is a good way to learn information more deeply. Instead of cramming as much as you can the day before, spreading out things throughout days or even a few weeks can make for better memorization and less stress. The most effective way to study is to work a little on one specific class or topic each day.
It’s good to be intense
Short bursts with lots of work often is more beneficial than continuing to study with no slowing down. Working for about 30 minutes then taking a break after is more effective than working nonstop for hours. Remember that breaks are important. It makes it easier to resist distractions, absorb the information easier, and reduce stress overall.
Silence isn’t golden
Some people find listening to classical music improves their focus and memory. Others prefer complete silence when working. Finding where you are the most productive is important for studying or any kind of work. While some might find focus best in a silent library, others might need ambiance or background noise.
Problems are your friend
More technical subjects like math could need working and reworking. Actively doing the problem will make it easier to remember a formula or topic. Doing things like putting together the most difficult problems can be beneficial. Reading the text is good, but to truly understand technical problems, physical examples are the best way to do the work.
Reconsider multitasking
In almost every case, multitasking isn’t beneficial for studying because it increases the amount of time needed to learn material. Instead, eliminate distractions and focus merely on the subject at hand. This way, you work smarter – not harder – and absorb information better. Reward intense studying with small breaks.
Switch up your setting
Working in a space that no longer works for you isn’t going to help you keep focused. Finding out when and where you study best makes you more comfortable. Some might work better earlier in the morning, or in the evening. While working on campus can be more productive, places like your town’s library or even a home office can work. Also, don’t make it one specific spot, having several good spots to study throughout makes it more diverse and easier.
Become a teacher
Attempting to explain the material in your own words makes for easier understanding. Doing this alone or in a group helps to retain the information because you are figuring out the problem areas. Going as far as making a quiz for yourself can also be extremely helpful. It puts you into the perspective of a teacher, identifying what is important and focusing on it. First, quiz yourself with notes on hand, then try to do it without looking to see what you need to put more effort into.
Take control of your calendar
Controlling stuff like distractions, your schedule, and your time can help accomplish goals easier. Being in control of your calendar means you stay on top of work and thus can organize more time to review the material. While daily and weekly calendars work, marking things down to the hour can really help with organization and time management. Scheduling routines is also beneficial with creating successful working habits.
Use downtime to your advantage
While the calmer weeks can be used to relax, they can also be used to get ahead. Working weeks with lighter loads can be a wonderful opportunity to tackle larger working projects or do things ahead of time.