These college study tips are to help students learn how and when to study, and tips and tricks you can use to get ahead. Studying for college is no fun, but if you plan your time correctly and get your work done, you will have more time for fun such as college parties.
Create Mnemonics
Mnemonics are devices that can help you memorize formulas, key concepts, definitions, etc. A really basic example of a mnemonic is “Please excuse my dear Aunt Sally” which stands for parenthesis, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction.
Make a Study Guide
Whether or not your professor gives you a study guide for an exam, making a study guide is very helpful when studying for tests. Go through the textbook, notes, and any other material and write down any information that you think may be on the test such as important concepts, definitions, and formulas. Reading and writing the information will help you memorize it faster. If your professor gives you a study guide, make sure to cover all the points listed.
Make Flash Cards
Making flash cards can be a bit time consuming, but flash cards are helpful tools in remembering vocabulary, formulas, and key concepts. They are also easy to carry around with you so you can review them anytime.
Quiz Yourself
To ensure that you are prepared for your test, make a mock quiz to test how well you know the material. Write down a list of keywords or questions and make sure to leave room underneath each one. Then, pretend that you’re taking the test and write down as much as you can.
Set Time Goals
Setting time goals for yourself will help make sure that you stay on track especially when you have time constraints. You’re more likely to be productive if you have goals to achieve.
Don’t forget to take breaks
Studying is hard work. You need to take short breaks so that the brain can process and store information. For example, you write MBA essay and do not know how to write a decent conclusion. Just take a break, read a book or take a walk in the park. Be sure to take only short breaks, otherwise it may be difficult to return to study. When you start learning again, look at the material you have already studied and then move on to something new.
Don’t Study Alone
Studying with other people is always easier, because you are all there and you know nothing else is going on. If possible convince your college friends to meet at the library at a specific time on a regular basis. If you and your friends have different schedules, do your best to find time when at least two of you are able to meet. This will also help you and your friends develop good study skills, keep tabs on your friends, and make sure they will be with you on graduation day.
