Studying productively involves much more than opening books, listening in class, and writing out essays. Students can definitely aim to stuff their short-term memory with information the night before an exam, in the hope that they will pass.
However, consistent study aids in developing long-term memory of facts is far more valuable. Constant study also helps to improve memory retention in other areas of your life. Improve your learning aptitude with these tips, designed to enhance the way you learn new material.
Create a Quiet Place for Study
It’s important for students to create their own special space to study. Set up a desk area that is all your own. Organize your PC, storage and other items exactly how you want them, and place your study material in separate containers for convenient access and retrieval. If possible, set your desk up where you won’t be disturbed or distracted by other people.
Once your space aspect is organized, you decide if you wish to study to rock music or Mozart or enjoy the quietness to absorb new information. This is something that the study tips research paper helper at Edubirdie put into practice. It is one big reason that the professional writers there are able to deliver high-quality theses, dissertations and essays consistently.
Individual learning styles will determine if you enjoy studying with music or whether this is an irritant. Whatever your learning style is, true study requires repetition. Don’t assume that one read-through will equip you to do a test.
Figure out Your Learning Style
You can expand the study methods used to reinforce long-term memory when you find out what your distinct learning style is. Some students will find that they learn better when faced with lots of visual aids.
Where this is the case, the student should incorporate more visual tools in the learning process. Make notes with colored pens, or write notes on a whiteboard using different colors. Use diagrams, videos or other tools to reinforce visual learning and improve memory.
Reading and writing learning is associated with visual learning, as patterns are linked with both learning forms. Writing notes also require a level of attention that aids in strengthening long-term memory.
Kinesthetic learning ties in with both the previous styles, because they incorporate tangible action for learning. Visual learners are aided by the use of colors, videos and other visual aids. Writing requires action, which can also be presented in a visual pattern.
Kinesthetic learners take the process a step further, though, because they go to the effort of creating flashcards, drawing or building diagrams or models, and through the technique of role-playing they make this one of the most involved study tips learning styles.
Auditory learners enjoy listening in classrooms or using audio to learn. These are the students who will learn better and improve memory when listening to music.
When you know how you learn, you can alter your environment to support your learning style. Another tool that supports studying is to create a timetable and stick to it.
Related: 15 Tricks to Improve Your Memory
Create a Study Timetable
Look through all your study modules, and write down the various dates of assignment deadlines. Note these details on a timetable or in a planner and calculate how much time you need to spend on each subject every day to meet your deadlines. You can use planner stickers to highlight important dates or milestones so that you’re aware of your goals. Consistent study through the semester removes a lot of pressure in the follow up to exams.
Follow your timetable to complete assignments on time, and prepare in advance for tests and exams, to minimize stress. If you’re well-rested, you are more relaxed, and your memory retention and recall are enhanced. The reverse is also true.
Make Study Notes
Auditory learners will not be impressed with this tip, but students with the other learning styles will appreciate the benefits. The reality is that there is an overlap in learning styles, but one tends to be dominant. All students can, therefore, benefit from making notes of their studies. Essentially, notes will be a collection of brief summaries of recent study material.
Students with dissimilar learning methods can use their strengths to create notes that appeal to them the most. Flashcards are evidence of the kinesthetic learning style, while the use of various color pens to make notes are effective for visual learners.
Jot notes down in your own shorthand or abbreviated method. Listen attentively to grasp the overall lecture, and summarize this after class if you can do this immediately. Write notes using your own vocabulary to support your comprehension of the lesson.
Balance and Reward
Take a balanced approach to your life. Set time aside for studies, socializing and exercise. Eat properly and get enough sleep. Aim for regular study rather than the all-night crash study times preceding exams. Burnout is negative and not an issue that a healthy student should consider an option.
Set study goals and reward yourself when these aims are realized. Rewards may be as simple as a restaurant meal for an A+ pass or a movie for a lower level pass. You know what your best motivators are that drive you to deliver your best work, so choose rewards that you enjoy.
Rewards reinforce positive behaviors that you want to repeat as a student. Don’t assume that rewards should be counterbalanced with penalties. The only penalties here are to put the issue behind you and try harder next time.
Related: 5 Hobbies That Will Make You More Productive
Conclusion
Students can choose helpful learning mechanisms when they understand what their individual learning style entails. Focus on building your strengths once your style is known. Create a dedicated learning space for yourself, along with a timetable to guide your studies. Make notes to assist your learning and recall. At the top of your list of study tips is to aim for a balanced, healthy life where rewards reinforce positive behavior.
