Students are burdened with many things they need to juggle on a daily basis. The whole pandemonium is often making it difficult for them to concentrate on the studying bit.
Paying close attention in class is important, but it’s not enough if we want to pass the course. We need to commit to a certain material for a good while and use our time wisely. Here’s how to smart up your habits and make your study sessions more effective and pleasurable.
The Environment
In the attempt to avoid the drab of their dorm rooms, students take their studying to the places that aren’t exactly conductive for undisturbed focus, nor do they promote faster retention of the material. The rule of thumb says that, if you notice too many things around you are drawing your attention, you’re not in a good studying spot.
For example, the roommates may be a potent distracting agent in your quarters, but you can adjust your schedule so it coincides with the time they’re out of the room. Alternatively, a library or a quiet café may just be your match. Test your options until you find the perfect studying environment.
The Matter of Approach
Majority of people see studying as a necessary evil and not a pleasurable activity that enriches them with knowledge. This can have a substantial effect on the studying success and formation of proper habits. As a matter of fact, the Stanford University researchers have found that positive attitude boosts our learning skills and logical thinking.
Sometimes conscious motivation helps, while in other situations abstaining from learning is the best solution. If there’s an issue that’s troubling you greatly, you should postpone the studying session and avoid the additional frustration.
Now, here are some tips on how to reshape your learning mindset:
- You can do it! Remind yourself that you’re capable and smart enough to comprehend it.
- Make the best of it! Whatever you do, don’t despair. Whether you’re a bit late to start the studying or you feel less confident, it’s never a cause to give up.
- Everything counts! You may be a perfectionist who goes by the all or nothing approach. If you don’t manage to memorise all the lessons you have planned for the certain session, remember that you HAVE covered a good portion of it and that you can resume later on.
- You’re unique! What works for others may not work for us, so don’t compare yourself with fellow students and their style.
Maintain a Good Health and Balance
How many times have you tried studying with a headache? It’s downright impossible. My experience tells me that insufficient water intake is to blame in most cases. Scientist also agree that drinking plenty of water can oust the nasty migraines and poor concentration. It can also make you feel more energised and cheerful.
To provide yourself with a constant source of fresh, purified water, turn to some of the quality water filtration systems. This is a decidedly cheaper and eco-friendly alternative to bottled water.
Adequate nutrition is another aspect you need to tackle to keep a steady body balance. Pack your meals with foods rich in substances that feed your brain and body alike (vitamins, minerals, etc.). Round it out with regular exercise of any kind to get the surge of energy and put yourself in a good mood.
Last, but not least, keep a balance in your everyday routine. Don’t focus too much on a single activity or you’ll quickly get derailed. Make time for social connections, family, studying and fun, as they all play a significant part in your life.
Learning Methods
While most of us have established an efficient studying method, some of you may still be searching. Here what you may try:
- Write a summary/outline in your own words as you finish certain sections
- Make intelligent use of the highlighter (don’t highlight everything!)
- Perform oral presentations and test your ability to reproduce newly-acquired knowledge
Development of productive study habits doesn’t include some top secret tips. Commit yourself to healthy eating and living, discover your own optimal learning method while keeping distractions away and you’re bound to succeed.