With so much freedom in college, the desire to study suffers. However, if you learn how to study in a way that works for you, it seems far less miserable. The following tips help you as you learn how to study for your college courses while still having time to enjoy your college experience.
DO: Know your learning style
In order to learn how to study, you first must know where to buy essays of learner you are. Some people are very visual learners and connect with material easily through written textbooks or class demonstrations. Others are auditory learners who take in information well simply by sitting through a lecture. Many people require a blend of both styles to learn most effectively. Find what way of learning suits you best, and study through that medium. If you learn well listening to lectures, tape them, and replay them as a study tool. If you are more visual, take as many notes as possible during lectures, and study your written words.
DO: Gather some friends
Sometimes bringing friends into your study time is not just a huge distraction. Find a friend who knows little about what you are studying, and teach the concept to him. If the idea of playing professor does not excite you, find a study group, and participate in the discussions. Explaining ideas to others offers a great way to help solidify information in your own head.
DON’T: Cram the night before a test
You know you are guilty of pushing off a study session with the attitude that any studying is better than no studying. However, breaking up the material you need to know into shorter but more frequent study sessions helps you retain information better. Rather than simply reading all of your notes the night before, take 15 to 20 minutes after each class to review the notes you took. Highlight key ideas and concepts, and write any questions you have for further clarification. When you need to study right before an exam, your notes are already highlighted with the most important aspects of each lecture. Reviewing notes after each class also gives you plenty of time to get answers to any questions or concepts you do not understand.
DON’T: Allow distractions
College life is full of stimulation and constant distractions. Avoid falling prey to the things that suck time out of your study schedule. If you need to be on the Internet to study, close any browsers that are not relevant to your material, such as your email or Facebook account. Turn your phone off for an hour so you avoid answering any text messages you receive. Turn off the television and music for a bit to allow yourself time to focus on your studies.
Repetition is helpful when grasping difficult concepts and ideas, so study regularly, going over your notes again and again. Also, know your professor’s office hours, and never be afraid to ask for a bit of extra help when it comes time to study.
