If you like studying with music, make sure it is chill music, without words, that won’t have you singing along and getting distracted. You can ask one of your family members to help you keep all the distractions away from you, such as mobile phones and laptops.
Studies have shown that multitasking isn’t only ineffective; it’s also stressful. You can get much more enjoyment out of a task if you focus on it and do a good job, and then move on to the next thing.
It’s also very satisfying to be able to check off each item as you complete it. You feel accomplished!
Some textbooks will also mark the most important information in bold, or have review sections going over key points. [6] X Research source It will also help you remember the material, and point out areas that you don’t understand, where you need to do more studying or ask for help. [7] X Expert Source Sean Alexander, MSAcademic Tutor Expert Interview. 14 May 2020.
Your brain and body need a little activity and fun so that you’re able to focus again.
Studies have shown that students who practice a growth mindset learn better than students with fixed mindsets, who tell themselves that every setback is a bad thing, instead of an opportunity to grow. Don’t worry if you have a more negative mindset now. You can develop a growth mindset with lots of positive self-talk.
Aim to get 8-9 hours of sleep a night, or more if that’s what you need.
For example, a tactile learner would best learn how a clock works by taking one apart and putting it back together. A visual learner would look at a diagram of how the clock worked. A reading/writing learner would read an essay about the clock’s function and take notes. An auditory learner would listen to a lecture about it. If you’re not sure what you’re learning style is, you can take an online quiz about it here: http://www. educationplanner. org/students/self-assessments/learning-styles-quiz. shtml
Try building a visual memory of things you need to remember if you’re a visual learner. For example, if you have to recite a long poem for your English class, try to picture each line or verse as a specific image.
Taking notes in class also forces you to pay attention. Don’t feel the need to write down every word your teacher says.
If you’re going to have to write an essay on your test, don’t just memorize information that you might have to include. Actually practice writing an essay in a short amount of time, so that when the day comes, you won’t feel nervous, because you’ve done it before.
Cramming the night before a test isn’t just stressful and exhausting, it’s also not very effective.
If your study group is having trouble focusing, try setting a timer for 45 minutes. Say: “Let’s study until the timer rings, and then we’ll have a snack break,” or something like that. Having a short, set amount of time to focus is more manageable.
Depending on the concept, you can also try teaching it to a younger sibling or somebody else who has less knowledge than you. Trying to explain a tricky concept in simple language can clarify your understanding. Also, explain your study concept to someone. This will help you understand the concept better because you’re talking out loud. If you can’t talk to someone, talk to your pet, your TV, your pillow, your imaginary friend, etc. The point of this isn’t to teach someone the concept, it is to read it out loud, but it might feel weird talking to yourself, which is why talking to someone or something can help.
Try your best on a problem before you ask for help from your teacher. Then phrase your question like this, “I tried this, but I couldn’t figure it out. Could you help?” or “I understand this part, but I’m confused about that part. What does it mean?” This will make it clear that you’re not asking your teacher to do your work for you, you are just looking for clarification.
