Study Skills
Basic Study Strategies
Studying doesn’t have to be complicated! Keep in mind some simple strategies to make your study sessions more productive. You’ll learn more about some of these in other modules in this course.
1. Set a study schedule and stick to it – find space in your schedule as many days per week as possible and put that study time on your calendar. Scheduling study time can also help avoid procrastination.
2. Take care of yourself – it may be tempting to pull an all-nighter before a test, but it’s not a good habit to get into. Our brains need rest, hydration, and healthy, protein-rich food in order to function properly. To ensure your studying is productive, do it when you’re most alert and energized.
3. Unplug from distractions – if it’s too tempting to procrastinate on social media, put your phone away while you study. Eliminate as many distractions as possible in your study space so you can get things done!
4. Work with your classmates in a study group – there are many benefits to working with others, if it suits your learning style. Teaching others is a great way to confirm your own knowledge of the material as well.
5. Find a good study space – whether it’s your kitchen table, the library, or a coffee shop, find a space that suits your study needs and learning style.
6. Practice active learning techniques, such as mindmapping, role-playing, teaching others, group discussions (online or in-person), and so on – these types of activities engage the mind for more effective learning and retention of information.
7. Watch videos covering the subject material – this can help make connections between the readings and real-life practice.