The Top 5 Science-Backed Study Tips
By: Tommy D.
With tests an important part of a student’s grade, some stress over the grade they will get. Others think that they know the material and take the test without studying, possibly failing. Some students don’t know how or good ways to study. Many sites have several ways and it will get confusing. This article is going to list the top five most recommended and proven ways to study.
Do not wait until the last second – Many students will wait till the last second to study. This is called procrastination. By studying at the last possible moment, you increase the stress and decrease the ability to focus. Try to study for about 60 (1 hour) to 90 minutes (1 hour and 30 minutes) a day. Study longer and your brain will get tired, rejecting new information (Greatist, 2018).
Study groups – The key to a good study group is finding dedicated students who actually want to study. Matt McCluskey, Coordinator of Academic Support at St. Lawrence University says this about study groups: “A group study session is an ideal time to review and compare notes, ask each other questions, explain ideas to one another, discuss the upcoming exam and difficult concepts, and, when appropriate, delegate study tasks. Do set an agenda and a specific time frame for your group study session so that your work together doesn’t veer off-topic.” (McCluskey, 2013).
Taking notes – One of the keys to good schoolwork and a good grade on a test is good notes. There are many different ways to take notes, but the most beneficial method is the one that helps you learn the material. One way to take notes is drawing graphs, Venn diagrams, or even just bullet points with the key ideas from your lesson. When you have completed the test, do not throw away your notes. You never know when you may need them again (McCluskey, 2013).
Get good sleep – A great way to process information after studying is either taking a nap or studying before bed. When you go to sleep, your brain processes what you experienced that day and in doing so will remember what you learned better than if you studied and then took the test (McCluskey, 2013).
Reward yourself-You’ve earned it! A great thing to do when you are done studying is to reward yourself, such as going out to eat, talking with friends, drawing, or reading. By doing this, you reinforce studying with an end result of good things, similar to a dog and a treat. If that dog wants that treat badly enough, he will sit. If you want that good grade, you will study.
Certain study tips may not be for everyone, but they are helpful. Try a few out and sample some new methods. Be it a study group, a chocolate bar for a reward studying, or even a couple of breaks in-between study sessions. You may find the right one that will help you ace that test. Good luck!