There are many different types of learners and understanding how you learn the best is important to improving your chances for success. If you are a visual learner you may understand best by reading and watching videos. If you are more of an audio learner you may want to tape the lectures so you can listen to them again or see if the books are available on tape. If you are a kinetic or tactile learner who best understands material by touch see if there are ways to actually do the things that are being talked about in class. For many tactile learners even the act of taking detailed notes can help them retain information.
Here are some of the best study skills that you can apply:
Always do the assigned readings before class
This allows you to focus on what the teacher is saying and to take better notes by understanding the material in advance. It also enables you to ask questions about material that you did not understand when you were reading it the first time. If you own the book, use highlighters and note key information in the margins.
Take good notes
One of the most helpful steps to information-taking is to begin each lecture on its own dated and numbered page. This makes it much easier to keep a chronological order of information given during each period and it also makes referencing specific information so much easier later on. Many teachers give tests based on how the information was presented, so the sequence of materials and information is vital.
For easier reference and study later on, writing on only one side of each sheet of paper is also a great method to employ. This makes it possible to lay pages side by side and eliminates the need to flip pages over. Another helpful tip is to leave some white space or blank lines throughout the page as this can come in handy later if one needs to add additional information.
Participate actively in class
Participating in class is important because it will help you remember the information you’re learning. By participating, asking questions, answering questions, and being an active participant in a group, you will be processing the information and applying it. When you simply sit and listen to a lecture, it is very difficult to retain a lot of the information. Your teacher or professor will also recognize the effort you are showing. If part of the grade is participation, this is one part anyone can easily get points for if they choose.
Set up a place for you to work that is conducive to studying
There are several techniques to help you do better at college. The best tips for study skills start with being prepared to do the work before you even sit down to study. You also need to be aware of your environment, give yourself enough time, manage your habits and expect the unexpected. Some people may be naturally smart but anyone can be a good student if they put in the needed investment of energy.
Set up a place for you to work that is conducive to studying. It should be quiet without distractions. Turn off the television and the radio, work alone and ask your friends and family not to interrupt you. Put your cell phone on mute and stay off the internet. Avoid studying on your bed as this just tends to make you tired.
Studying for a test
If you’re studying for a test, try to make flashcards of the information. Carry these with you and review them when you have a few minutes here and there. Another great strategy is to set up a study group with fellow classmates. Be sure to go over the study guide together and brainstorm answers. The act of simply dialoguing together will help to cement the ideas in your mind. These different strategies will help you succeed as you develop your study skills.
Keep yourself relaxed
If you feel yourself losing focus or nodding off get up and do something. A quick walk around your house in the fresh air can invigorate you. Try a few jumping jacks or sit ups to get the blood flowing. Make sure to drink plenty of water or juice.
If you feel anxious about the work, take a break. Close your eyes, let your head fall forward and roll it from left to right. Take deep slow breaths; in through your nose and out through your mouth. Tighten up your muscles and release them.
Max Grades Min Effort system covers absolutely everything on study skills that REALLY work for college students. It doesn’t just mention some obvious study tips like every other website or book. It focuses more on teaching you how to keep yourself on the right track with useful strategies that you could possibly surprise.
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