If you’re just beginning your college journey – perhaps taking psw training or looking to become a police officer in North Bay – you might be feeling a bit concerned about juggling homework and readings with your other responsibilities. A recent survey at the University of California revealed that 33% of students felt like they didn’t know the proper way to study.
To combat this statistic, we’ve put together a collection of essential study tips every new student can use to get the most out of their courses. So, if you need to brush up on your study skills, or are just looking for a way to maximize your learning potential while in college, check out the quick-guide infographic below.
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Make Study Goals
- Study with a purpose! Know what information needs to be gathered from your study session for better efficiency.
- Start by making a list of goals to ensure you stay on track and meet important targets
Location is Key
- Pick a study zone that will help you stay concentrated, comfortable, and on-task (this is different for each learner)
Best study locations include:
- A Café (free WiFi!)
- The Library (unlimited resources at hand)
- In a Study Group (keeps you focused on can provide help when needed)
Gather Your Tools
- Whether you’re training to become an Office Administrator or a Paramedic, you’ll need a range of study materials to get the job done right
- Gather your class notes, textbooks, laptop and tablet to ensure you have maximum access to research, help, and your instructor’s guidelines
Tips:
- Don’t let your technological tools become agents of distraction!
- Don’t open up social media accounts and steer clear of non-study related browsing until AFTER you’ve met your goals for the day
Review Your Notes
- Reviewing your notes once a week helps you retain more information.
Tips:
- Rewrite your notes
- Schedule review sessions
- Review material directly after class
Habits to Avoid: Highlighting draws your brain to individual points instead of helping you make connections between concepts. You’ll lose sight of the big picture!
Take Study Breaks
- Studying performance starts to decline at the 50-60 minute mark.
- A Cornell University study showed that employees who took breaks every 52 minutes were 13% more accurate in their work.
- A break with light activity (stretching or a walk) every 40 minutes can relieve eyestrain and muscle tension.
Reward Yourself
- Propose rewards as an incentive to focus on your studying.
- Make rewards attainable:
“If I study for 3 hours, then I’ll watch a movie.”
Eat Right
- Late night studying can lead to poor convenience food choices like chips, soda, and pizza.
Best foods for your memory:
- Fish
- Blueberries
- Sunflower or pumpkin seeds
- Green vegetables
- Choose protein-rich foods to keep full and focused
Study Groups
- Keep the group size around 3-5 people
- Choose a leader who can keep the group focused
- Prepare before the study session for best results
- Bring your questions and encourage others to share their own
- Talking through tough concepts helps build a more solid understanding for everyone
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