Studying can be a daunting task, especially if you have a lot of material to cover. While studying faster might seem like the way to go, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you will retain information better. However, there are strategies you can use to study both efficiently and effectively. By adopting the right approach to learning, you can retain more information in less time, boost your academic performance and achieve your academic goals.
1) Prioritize your tasks
One of the most important strategies for efficient and effective study is to prioritize your tasks. With so much information to cover, it can be easy overwhelmed and waste time on less important material. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the most important material that you need to learn, and focus your efforts on that material first. You can do this by creating a study plan and setting clear goals. By focusing on the material that’s most relevant, you’ll be more likely to retain the information and make the most of your study time.
2) Use active learning strategies
Active learning strategies involve engaging with the material actively, rather than simply reading or listening to it. These strategies can help you learn faster and more effectively, as they encourage you to interact with the material and create connections in your brain. Examples of active learning include summarizing the material, explaining it to someone else, creating flashcards, and practicing problem-solving exercises. By engaging with the material actively, you’ll be able to retain the information better and transfer it to long-term memory.
3) Use the SQ3R Method
The SQ3R method is a powerful five-step method for studying that involves Survey, Question, Read, Recite and Review. The first step is to survey the material before you start, which involves scanning through the material to get an overview of its content. The second step is to create questions based on what you need to learn, which will help you focus your reading and identify the most important information. The third step is to read the material actively, focusing on answering the questions you created. The fourth step is to recite what you’ve learned, which involves summarizing the material in your own words and connecting it to your existing knowledge. Finally, the fifth step is to review the material regularly, which will help you consolidate the information and make it more accessible in the future.
4)Avoid Multitasking
Multitasking might seem like a good way to get more done in less time, but it can actually be counterproductive when studying. The human brain is not designed to handle multiple tasks at once, and trying to do so can lead to distractions, errors and lower quality of work. Therefore, it is crucial to focus on one task at a time, avoid distractions and create a conducive study environment. You can do this by turning off your phone, logging our of social media, and finding a quiet study space.
5) Use Technology to your Advantage
Technology has revolutionized the way we learn, making it easier and more convenient than ever before. There are many apps and tools available that can help you study more efficiently, such as flashcard apps, note-taking apps, and time management apps. These apps can help you organize your study materials, track your progress and stay motivated. For instance, you can use Anki to create digital flashcards, Evernote and many more.
6) Take breaks
Taking breaks might seem counterproductive when you’re trying to study, but research has shown that taking breaks can actually help you learn more effectively. Breaks can help reduce fatigue, increase motivation, and improve long-term retention of information. To make the most of your breaks, try to engage in a relaxing or enjoyable activity, like taking a walk, meditating, or listening to music. Moreover, you should aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night, and avoid staying up late to cram for exams.
7) Incorporate exercise
Exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health, but it can also have a positive impact on your cognitive function. Exercise can improve memory, attention, and creativity, making it an excellent addition to your study routine. To incorporate exercise into your study routine, try taking a walk or doing some light exercise before or after your study sessions.
In conclusion, mastering the art of studying requires more than just reading through your notes or textbooks. To truly learn and retain information, you need to use advanced study strategies like prioritize your tasks, use active learning strategies, use the SQ3R method, avoid multitasking, use technology, take breaks and incorporating exercise. By implementing these strategies, you can become a more effective and efficient learner, and achieve your academic goals with confidence.
Words by: Dr Nur Fauwizah Azahar