Studying seems to be the bane of every college student’s existence and late nights in the library are something everyone goes through. Luckily, with the right organizational tricks and tips, it doesn’t have to be an all-night affair.
Drop the Morning-of Routine
You forgot about a test today, and now you’re cramming in as much information as you can before the exam starts. While you may get one or two correct answers because of this, the fact of the matter is, you simply won’t retain any of that information as well. Try studying the night before if you realize you forgot about a test. Sleep helps our brains retain information, so getting a bit of cramming in at night is a lot more effective if you do end up procrastinating.
Take Regular Breaks
A sleepy body leads to a sleepy mind. When your body starts telling you it’s time to leave your hunched over position and walk around, listen to it. Your mind needs to be refreshed with a simple walk around the room or house. Even five minutes of being up and about is enough to rejuvenate your studying powers for another hour.
Remember to Repeat
Facts won’t stick with you if you glance over them once and set them aside. This is why shorter sessions of study numerous times throughout the week are far more beneficial than sitting down just the night before. While it may be tricky for the first few days, eventually you’ll find a rhythm that has you studying maybe two hours each night, rather than eight hours in one big go. This is also super beneficial for higher learning, like if you’re going after an information technology MBA or nursing degree.
Study What You Don’t Know
Instead of wasting your time with things you’ve already memorized, tackle the stuff that just doesn’t seem to want to stick. Not only will your mind be fresh because new studying has just begun, but it will give you more time to add this information to your memory, giving you a better chance at getting the better grade.
Learn in Your Style
Just because a teacher provides you information one way doesn’t mean you can’t study it a different way. Whether you’re an oral, visual, or verbal learner, study in a way that works best for you. Highlight things in different colors, read the notes aloud or rewrite them. So long as it sticks, it’s a good way to study.
Like most things in life, studying can be made easier with a little planning and organization. All it takes is a little dedication on your part.
