Here is part 1 of a 3-part series about studying efficiently. In this first section, we will cover studying basics. Later articles will be more detailed and specific for the type of studying you might be doing.
Studying efficiently has a lot to do with time management. Time management refers to a range of skills, tools, and techniques used to manage time when accomplishing specific tasks, projects and goals. First, before all else, you want to make a list of chapters, note slides, articles, etc. that you want to go over in an allotted period of time. This helps you stay focused so that you don’t start daydreaming or thinking about all of the other probably more fun things you could be doing. This is extremely important. Breaking your tasks into manageable portions will allow you to set realistic goals which can be completed without feeling overwhelmed.
Beginner Tips:
- Bringing your computer to class is a must. Not only does it save the trees but it allows you to take much more accurate notes, depending on how fast you type. If you’re a pecker this could be tragic for you.
- Taking notes on your professors PowerPoint slides in the small section below each slide labeled “Notes” is an excellent way to keep your notes organized with your study materials. This is much better than using a notebook so that you can match up particular slides and comments.
- When you study, you want to make sure that you understand the material well enough to be able to explain it to someone else.
- Have you ever tried recording your lectures? Hand held recorders are available. Other options include downloading the voice recorder app on the iPhone or using the recording feature in Word that comes with the Mac version of Microsoft Office. Check out our Top 3 note-taking programs here.
Other useful tips:
- Studying in groups is optimal for people who are unsure of certain subject areas. This is because teaching and explaining things helps you form stronger memories of the subject matter.
- Use the Pandora app on your iphone, if you have one, to listen to classical music. It’s proven to increase concentration!
In part 2 we will address how to study for big tests and how to write papers efficiently.
Photo Source: hvaldez1
[tags] study, studying, time management, note, note taking, how to study efficiently [/tags]
