As we get older, we come to the realization that the study tactics we used in middle school and in high school do not work in college. It's like the same method as exercising. We have to change our workout regimen once our body gets used to the same ole thing and the workout gets easier. The real goal is to develop a good study plan using little tactics that turn into "stronger" tactics. In the end, it is not about how "much" you study, it's about how much you learn. The grade is important to you, but don't let that be the only benefactor to your success. Grades are an indication of how well you know the material for the time being but not a measure of your intelligence overall. It matters what you get out of a class or subject more than the grade itself. Keep that in mind. These are my study tips that you should take into consideration.
1. Make sure to use a planner and write in it every day.
-One of my techniques is to get a planner and at the beginning of the semester, write all of the important dates from my syllabi in all of my classes. This way, you never miss a deadline and you see everything right in front of you.
2. Study for 15 minutes a day in each class.
-Studying for these few minutes will help you retain the information easier in a gradual amount of time. Remember less is more. If you review the notes prior to class and/or after, you will know what your professor is talking about and understand the material.
3. Take advantage of Quizlet
-In class, if the professor supplies powerpoint notes, I typically make quizlet flashcards while they're lecturing so that I have more time to read everything off and can organize my thoughts right then and there. This is an easier and eco-friendly method to not cramp your hand and waste paper making flash cards. It also helps when someone else has made Quizlet flashcards for said class so you don't have to make them yourself. (You can look this up).
4. Ask questions and attend office hours
-Not only does this build a relationship with your professor(s) but you're able to clarify things one-on-one and go over it as many times as you wish. It's difficult to get your professor's attention when a lot of people are asking questions during and after class (especially if you're shy).
5. If you get the exams back, write the answers to every question on a piece of paper and go back in your notes and see why you got it wrong and what the definition/concept was.
-This way, if the exam is cumulative, you are building more of an understanding for this information in the long run.
6. In class, make sure you are taking notes but mainly take notes when appropriate (if the professor writes on the board) and active listen. If the professor says something you don't know, write the question out and ask them in office hours.
-If you're too busy writing word for word, you might not catch everything that they're saying and not understand everything in full. It is important to write things that they're telling you to write as well as the questions you may have while you're listening and catch it.
