Studying for the Not-So-Elite
Study Tips for Everyone!
Why doesn't the info stick?!
This is FALSE.
Your brain has the ability to retain the information, you just have to find what kind of method works for your specific brain.
Here are some great study tips that may work for you. Try some out until you find what works best!
Pay Attention!
What can you do to make learning easier?
- Try studying in a place free of distractions
- No music, TV, distracting roommates.
Don't Cram for Exams!
Also, whenever you cram, some of the information is interfering with other information you have tried to cram. Short-term memory only has a limited storage capacity, so the memories are "fighting" for space with your brain.
What can you do to make learning easier?
- establish a regular studying schedule.
- go over material, not just one night, but multiple nights
Find Patterns!
Also, you can use mnemonic devices, like making acronyms, to relate new information into an easier way to remember it.
What can you do to make learning easier?
- make connections
- connect new material, to material already stored in your long-term memory
- use mnemonic devices
These tips don't work for you?! Here are some more!
Perfect Practice Makes Perfect!
What can you do to make learning easier?
- Repeat the information out loud to yourself
- Say the information to someone else
- Write it down multiple times
Visualize the Information!
What can you do to make learning easier?
- pay attention to the images, charts, and diagrams provided.
- If none are provided, then try to produce one of your own. Draw them in your notes next to the information.
Study What You Don't Know!
Yes, you should review the material so it doesn't decay from your memory. But, you shouldn't spend hours reviewing a topic you know really well. You need to prioritize your time and focus your attention on the information that you don't know very well, so that you might actually retain that information.
What can you do to make learning easier?
- review learned material
- focus the majourity of your attention on stuff you don't know, not stuff you already learned.