The Art of Effective Studying

Many do not realize that studying is an art. Like an artist, each and every student must formulate a distinctive approach for themselves.

The first step to establishing an effective study schedule is to discover your key productivity period; that golden period of the day when you are the most alert. Next, you must take into account the length of your attention span. In general, it is the most effective to study in 20-25 minute blocks, alternating between several subjects. This helps to keep your mind engaged and focused. Most importantly, make a schedule and follow it!

The second crucial step is to select an appropriate study environment. You need to determine whether you are more productive studying alone or with companions, and whether you need complete silence or background sounds. Furthermore, studying in an environment that is similar to the testing environment will help to keep you more relaxed during an exam.

Last but not least, you need to find study strategies that work for you. Listed below are several strategies that work for many students.
1. Repetition is the key to learning. Make flashcards so that you can review regularly.
2. Colour-code your notes! This will help your brain organize information so that it is easier to recall the information when you need it.
3. Teach the course material to a friend or a classmate. Then review information that you were uncomfortable teaching.

No one method works for all students, so go and create a strategy that is effective for you!