While there is a never-ending list of abilities we want our kids to learn before heading out into the real world, essential study skills are a high priority for those that are collegebound.
Don’t get me wrong, knowing how to cook and do laundry is important, but they aren’t going to lose a scholarship or get kicked out of school for wearing less-than-clean undies! Well, maybe…
For most students, and parents, the word “study” sparks dread, panic, and, quite possibly, fear. As educators, it’s easy to get so focused on being sure all the basic education requirements are covered, writing, reading, math, science, and making sure we are checking all the right boxes that we forget the importance of continually reinforcing learning foundations. As our kids grow and advance, it’s obvious that as one level of math is mastered, you move on to the next. Often not so evident is the need to also progress in the subject of study skills.
Learning how to effectively study takes focus and, most importantly, discipline. Usually, procrastination and a lack of motivation are the first hurdles to conquer. It can be difficult to not focus on the mountain you have to move when you are working with a garden trowel. Developing solid study habits and the discipline to stick to a schedule are essential for productive and successful studying.
So how do you overcome these obstacles and obliterate all-nighters before an exam? Read on….
Pre-Study Organization
First and foremost, get yourself organized.
Start by evaluating your course load. How many courses do you have? Which ones will require the most work/studying? Make a prioritized list that includes study/homework time estimates.
*A good rule-of-thumb when analyzing courses is to allow two hours per credit hour per week for homework. So for example, if you’re taking a high school math class that accounts for one credit it would be the equivalent of taking a three-hour college course. 3 (credit hours) x 2 (hours per week) = 6 hours of homework/study per week for math.
I realize this estimate may be high for high school level courses, but it is a good idea to schedule it as such, to get in the habit, and then scale back as allowable.
Next, make a list of all activities. And when I say “all”, I mean EVERYTHING; activities, lessons, chores, holidays, exercise, personal/relaxation time, review class syllabuses and make note of test dates or deadlines.
Now, GET A PLANNER. I know our world is digital, but having an actual, physical planner can be very beneficial. The act of purposely writing something down is extremely helpful in remembering. Like, on paper. With a pen. Another benefit is using different colored markers and stickers or drawings. This may sound adolescent but adding an entertaining aspect will also help to reinforce the habit of using the planner.
That being said, there is a definite benefit to using technology. There are numerous apps and programs available to organize, schedule, and remind. Which one, if any, work for you is a personal choice. In my opinion, MyStudyLife is a great option and it’s free. And we all know how I like free!
Once you have your planner and lists, it’s time to start organizing those time requirements. Start by blocking out any commitments or tasks that are not flexible, like tests or employment hours. Work around those to fill in commitments, such as doctor appointments or lessons, that are scheduled but could be moved if necessary.
After you have accounted for the “must-haves”, add the things left of the list that are easier to shift as needed. What I mean by “shift”, is exactly that, shift. Don’t be tempted to not exercise because you want to go out for ice cream. Just because something is flexible doesn’t mean it can be ignored. Get in the mindset of borrowing time. Each time you want to use a time slot for something other than what is scheduled, you can’t do it unless there is an empty space to move the original commitment. Being vigilant about this one habit will save major heartache in the future and contribute immensely to overall success.
Mental Preparation
The mental part of preparing starts with a bit of self-evaluation. Is there a time of day that works best for learning and retaining information? Are you more motivated by an incentive or a reward? Do you work best in a group or alone?
Use the answers to fill in tasks in the framework you started in your planner, to develop a timeline or schedule. Plan to do any challenging work first so it is done and not hanging over your head!
It helps to be specific with your entries.
For example, instead of this:
Monday 9/1
Bio Chapter 4
Monday 9/8
Bio chapter 5
schedule this:
Monday 9/1
Bio chapter 4: sections 1-5
Wednesday 9/3
Bio chapter 4: sections 5-10
Also, try to schedule work for each subject at the same time on the same day each week. Being repetitive helps with creating a habit.
Don’t forget to block time for breaks every 50-90 minutes. According to the Atlantic, the formula for perfect productivity is work for 52 minutes followed by a 17 minute break. Whether you choose to be that specific or not, it is important to allot time for breaks to give your brain a chance to process and rest and you to refuel!
Set goals to avoid procrastination. Make them small and attainable; “complete introduction and conclusion” rather than “write essay”. By doing this, you’re forcing your brain to focus on one job at a time rather than the entire task.
Physical Preparation
Physical preparation involves creating a space that is conducive to study, according to your personal preference. It should be comfortable with no distractions (that means turning your phone OFF). Strive for optimal lighting, temperature, and noise (music, quiet, etc.).
If you find a particular subject or lesson more difficult, remember that sometimes a change of scenery can increase attention and retention. Maybe a trip to the library or coffee shop is in order? Or maybe just a different room.
Create an organization system for each subject/course. Use one notebook for each class. Include a copy of the syllabus (which you have read and understand!), folders/pockets for homework, a grade sheet to track your progress, and paper for notetaking.
Effective Study Habits
Space out study sessions
DO NOT CRAM. Doing an overall review of material is a great idea the day before an exam. Trying to cram studying all of the material you need to learn in one day is a bad idea.
Research studies have shown that if the same amount of time is spent studying the same material over multiple sessions, retention is far greater than if it were all done in one sitting.
Reading and notetaking
Before class, check your syllabus for material that will be discussed. Skim the chapter by reading the introduction, section headings, and any subdivisions.
Divide a piece paper into 1/3rds.
Use the first 1/3rd to summarize sections as you read.
In the 2nd portion, write down any questions that you have about the material.
Use the 3rd portion to take lecture notes during class, only adding any missing points. Place a check mark on points that appear on the summaries you wrote before class. Highlight any items/topics that are stressed in class.
*Jot down additional assignments or announcements and don’t forget to put them in your planner ASAP!
After EACH class, use your reading notes and lecture notes to write a summary of what was covered. Use those summaries to create flashcards and quizzes (study programs/apps Quizlet and Chegg .
Once a week, review the flashcards and take quizzes. Practicing material on a regular basis will help alleviate test anxiety.
*As you are taking notes and writing summaries, it can be helpful to say the material out loud. Utilizing multiple sensories, reading, writing, hearing, is beneficial in information retention.
Test Prep
The overall goal of learning is to study for understanding, not just to pass a test. Daily study time is a great way to study. The day before a test, plan to study all day, if possible, in chunks (remember the formula for perfect productivity).
If you’ve stuck to your study schedule, this day should be a review of all the material you’ve learned. Take time to study flashcards, do sample tests, and work example problems. Remember, cramming isn’t learning.
