How to Study Effectively
Sometimes when we study we don't realise we're on auto-pilot and not actually absorbing as much as we could be. Other times we're not using our time as efficiently. Whatever your problem is when it comes to studying, this post will discuss how you can get the most out of your studying sessions.
🌻 Eliminate All Distractions 🌻
Put your phone away! Don't just keep it on silent, put it in a drawer or another room to discourage you from reaching for it too easily. If you have to use your computer while you study make sure you block access to distracting websites with apps like Cold Turkey https://getcoldturkey.com/ with which you can block any website for a certain amount of time. In addition, get all necessary items for your study sessions to avoid getting distracted by getting up to retrieve them.
🌻 Set a Timer 🌻
To use your time well, set a task for yourself to complete in a given amount of time. Once you decide how long you want to focus on that task set your timer and begin your task. As soon as the timer goes off, take a break and pick another small task to focus on. Be reasonable with the amount of time you give yourself. For example, you could set a 30 minute timer for reading and highlighting a certain section of your textbook or 30 minutes to write up notes for a topic you just covered.
🌻 Take a Break 🌻
Studying for hours non-stop is only going to make you tired. Your brain can't learn anything you're studying if you don't give it time to process the information. This is why it's important to study in short bursts of 30-40 minutes and to take a break after said period. Enjoy 10-20 minutes of relaxation. Maybe take a walk, stretch, eat or talk to someone (careful not to get distracted). Basically, you're giving your brain time to stop and process what you've studied and it also acts as a rewarding system for your efforts.
🌻 Break it Down 🌻
Take your big tasks and break them down into smaller, achievable units. Combine this with the timer method to maximize productivity. Breaking down a big task can make it less daunting and can help you avoid missing the smaller details in it. You can do this with long chapters, test preparation or homework. Use the Pomodoro Technique to help you break your tasks into manageable units (I've written a post on this here http://bit.ly/2E2KhtK )
🌻 Create a Study Space 🌻
Study at a desk! This might seem obvious but you'd be surprised at how many people make this mistake. Don't study in your bed or you'll risk becoming sleepy/falling asleep. Keep yourself alert by sitting at a desk.
🌻 Sleep 🌻
After a great day of studying it's important to get a decent amount of sleep. Help yourself by helping your brain work at optimum conditions. During our sleep our brain processes what we went through in the day and consolidates memories. REM sleep has been linked to learning and memory. So, if you really want to get the most out of your studying sessions make sure to get a good nights rest after you finish!
Good luck with your studying! Comment below any of your study tips and don't forget to share this post with your friends 🌈
My problem is I forgot things so quickly, I can’t remember a topic for a week or two.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry, I'll post a few things on improving memory and learning. Stay tuned for those ✨
DeleteI was amazing at academics when i was a kid but now i am an average student. My average friends have become soo good. I feel my concentration power is reducing soooo much. Please helpp
DeleteHonestly I've been through the same thing. The only way I got out of it was by working harder, disciplining myself and more importantly being more positive. I'll be posting about how positive attitudes and self-acceptance and how they're related to better academics. Stick around and I'll try to help everyone as much as I can. ✨
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