Question

5 Tips to Study Effectively

Answer 1

1. Remove all distractions. Turn off your phone and put it away where it will be hard to reach. Use apps to block distracting websites/games from your computer. Don't eat meals while you study (drinking water/coffee/tea/etc. is fine, stay hydrated).

Answer 2

2. Take notes by hand, if possible. Research has shown that taking notes by hand, since it is slower, forces you to slow down and process what is important, whereas taking notes by laptop encourages you to write everything verbatim without thinking about it.

Answer 3

3. Recall > Recognition. Here's an analogy: you can probably recognize an outline of the United States on a map (recognition) but it will be much harder to draw one from memory (recall). Use flashcards or a similar study method to ensure that you can answer a question from memory (no cues or outside help).

Answer 4

4. Highlighting is ineffective unless you DO something with the highlighted information. It can lure you into a false sense of productivity.

Answer 5

5. Have a set time and place to study. 10 one-hour sessions is more effective than one 10-hour session. Avoid studying in your room, because your brain has already created an association between sleeping and your bedroom (and if you MUST study in your room, at least sit up at a desk). Find a quiet, temperature-controlled location like the library.