As you get older, you start to realize that everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, and for many students that weakness is studying. Not every student is born with studying super powers, but every student can learn how to study efficiently. With a little practice and use of these time management tips, you can start having more efficient study sessions.
Set a Goal Beforehand
What are your strengths? Which class just doesn’t make sense? Take some time to figure out what you should be studying, or which topics you need more help with than others. Now’s the time to break out that study guide your teacher handed out, assuming it’s not crumbled in a ball at the bottom of your backpack.
Hide Your Phone
You’re not allowed to have your phone out in class, what makes you think you should have it out when you’re studying? If you must use your phone for research, close out every other app except your browser, then immediately lock it when you’re done. This requires self-control, but you can take comfort in knowing that you’ll have lots of free time once you get a proper studying technique
Study Smaller Portions
It can be difficult trying to study multiple chapters all at once, you’re better off dividing the material into sections. If you have a study guide, divide up the unit into smaller sections, giving yourself 10-20 minutes for each section. This especially helps if you are unfamiliar with the material and need a general summary of the topics for a test the next day.
Take Effective Breaks
Staring at the paragraphs of small text in your history book can take a toll on your eyes, and sometimes your sanity. After you finish one of your sections (20-30 minutes), take a 5-10 minute break during which you should get moving, drink water, and take a step outside to get some fresh air. You’d be surprised how much a small effective break can keep your mind focused on the task at hand.
Schedule Everything
Get a calendar, and no, the one in your phone doesn’t count (plus, it’s hiding). Marking the days you’ll dedicate to studying a week ahead of time not only reminds you when the time comes, but also helps you make sure everything else is taken care of before you dedicate all your attention to hitting the books. You should also schedule a “reward” after a studying session, whether that be a new toy, a trip for ice cream, or even a couple hours dedicated solely to video games. Seeing your reward on the calendar will help motivate you to get your studying done.
As we stated earlier, studying is a skill that can be learned, and it can be done with just small changes to your routine. You’ll soon find that having a good studying routine can lead to better grades and even more importantly more free time to pursue new found coding hobby!
