Being a student is one of the most challenging but valuable part of my life (aside from motherhood, of course). Although they say that learning is not limited in the four corners of the classroom, I can say that the basic knowledge I know about the world came from school.
Now that most kids are back to school, I just want to share some cool and helpful tips that will make studying effectively. I know for a fact that when you are a student, a lot of distractions come in the way that hinders one from properly utilizing time and energy.
- Plan a definite time for study. Studying everyday at a certain time (even for a short period of time) makes a lot of difference. It will prevent study materials from piling up and at the same time will discourag procrastination.
- Organize a list. List all the topics/subjects that needed to be studied and prioritize the most difficult materials first. Define which are weak and strong subjects and if possible get a help for example, an Algebra Tutor
- Take breaks. Take 5-10minute breaks in between study sessions. These breaks allow your mind to be refreshed and ready to concentrate better, retain more and finish faster.
- If possible, study during the day. It is believed that we are probably less efficient at night. While this may not be applicable for all, because some tend to concentrate more during the night, the key here is finding the time of the day when we are more efficient and will be able to absorb more.
- Do not cram. This can be summarized in two words : Information Overload! No, we can't put in ALL information at the same time so it is better to plan ahead and make time for shorter but frequent study sessions as compared to a one time big time.
Remember, we retain…
10% of what we read
20% of what you hear
30% of what we see
50% of what we see and hear
70% of what we talk about with others
80% of what we experience personally
95% of what we teach to others
*source : http://academic.cuesta.edu/
**photo source : http://mrg.bz/oMOgvY