Hey there, welcome to the exciting world of college! We know that the introduction to a new curriculum can feel overwhelming, transitioning from high school to college studies can be a bit of a rollercoaster, and finding the best way to study with a new course load can seem like a daunting process!
Jessie Schwab, a psychologist at the Harvard College Writing Program points out that we tend to misjudge our own learning, and being able to recite memorized information is not the same as actually retaining it.
Finding effective study methods is key, ones that engage different learning styles. You see, simply memorizing information might give you a short-term victory, but truly understanding and retaining it is where the magic happens. But fret not, we've got your back! Let's ditch the "one-size-fits-all" approach and explore unconventional techniques that set you apart from the crowd. Because let's be honest, who wants average results when you can aim for extraordinary ones? In this blog, we've rounded up the top 10 study tips that will revolutionize your learning game and have you excelling like a pro.
1. Viewing studying as an investment in yourself will revolutionize the way you approach those daunting study sessions. It will become a magical journey where every textbook page turned and every equation solved adds value to your own personal stock which will compound into real-life dividends in the future. It's like you're becoming the CEO of your academic empire, making strategic investments in your brainpower!
2. Tackling big tasks can be a real challenge, but guess what? The secret sauce is in just getting started! When you have important assignments or projects, let's kick things off by jotting down the due date. You can create a nifty planner where you mark those due dates and decide when to begin each task. Here's a handy trick: write down the start date alongside the due date. Then, even if it's just for a quick 5-minute research or brainstorming session, dive in and conquer that initial hurdle. Trust me, once you break the ice, everything else will naturally fall into place. This way, you can bid farewell to last-minute panic as well.
Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychology professor at Dominican University in California found that you are 42 percent more likely to achieve your goals just by writing them down.
3. Introducing the "Flood and Retreat Iteration" method, a strategy that will conquer even the most formidable subjects with a touch of whimsy. You dive deep into the concepts headfirst and soak up the knowledge like a sponge. But here's the twist: just when you feel the waves of information might engulf you, it's time to retreat. Step back, take a breather, and let your brain absorb all the concepts. Then, armed with renewed curiosity, return to the battlefield of learning for the next round of exploration. With each iteration, you'll ride the waves of understanding!
4. Reflect on your progress, as the key to success lies not only in absorbing information but also in tracking how far you’ve come. Take a moment to pause and ponder, my friend. Reflect on your study habits, your strengths, and areas for improvement. Did you slay that math problem with ease or stumble upon a trick or rule? Embrace the power of self-awareness and adapt accordingly.
5. Revise with digital notes! They're already a game-changer, but guess what? You can take it up a notch by adding some magical keywords. Start using keywords like "Summarise," "Questions," "Answer," "Revise," and "Understand this" at the top of your notes. Color code them to make them pop and stay consistent throughout. Trust me, when it's revision time, you'll thank yourself. Just hit "Control+F" and boom! All those important questions and key points are at your fingertips, making studying a breeze. And don't forget, even with handwritten notes, sticky notes work like wonders too!
6. “We humans are visual creatures. Visual things stay put, whereas sounds fade,” said Steven Pinker (Canadian cognitive psychologist). So, use this ability to your advantage! By visualizing your concepts, you unlock a world of clues and hints that make learning feel like a breeze.
7. Are you aware of the legendary Feynman Technique? It’s a secret weapon for mastering concepts with flair and finesse. Here's how it works: Step one, choose a concept that tickles your curiosity. Step two, play the role of a teacher and explain it to yourself or a lucky accomplice. Step three, if you stumble upon a confounding roadblock then simply return to the source material. Step four, sprinkle some simplification magic on your explanations, and voila! Studies show that when you take on the role of a teacher, your memory and recall abilities skyrocket to dazzling heights.
8. Learning by osmosis is one of the marvelous phenomena! It's like soaking up knowledge through a long exposure, where you immerse yourself in the environment and passively absorb the wisdom that surrounds you.
9. When it comes to tackling those theoretical subjects, it's also important to unlock your brain's preferred study schedule. For some, the crack of dawn may be their brain's prime time for memorizing content, while others may find their cognitive powers come alive in the enchanting evenings or even in nocturnal vibes. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to studying time—it's all about finding your personal magic hour.
10. Getting in the good books of your teachers or professors! It's not about becoming a teacher's pet, but there are some awesome benefits to building a friendly rapport with them. Start by becoming a familiar face—ask questions after class, seek clarification on concepts, and discuss any doubts you may have. By forging a bond with your teachers, you'll feel more comfortable asking questions and become more accountable for your work because you wouldn't want to let them down. In college, your professors are also like tickets to your future since they have connections in the industry you're interested in, having walked the same path. Take the opportunity to chat with them about their personal experiences in the industry and building this relationship will make them genuinely happy to lend a helping hand.
So, besties, get ready to flex your brain muscles and conquer those college challenges with flying colors! Follow ISIC India for more such helpful tips because we are Your Student Lifesaver.
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