10 Simple Study Habits for Successful Learning
By Dr. Phyllis Ingham, EdD, MEd, MLS(ASCP)cmAHI(AMT)
In order to become an effective student, the key is to first learn “how to study”. Successfully managing your time is often the first place to begin. Learn to study smarter, not harder. Successful students reach their goals by developing and applying effective study habits. Let’s take a look at 10 simple study habits that can assist you in studying, retaining the information, and increasing your ability to recall knowledge.
1. Don’t Cram
Don’t attempt to cram your studying into one session. Studying is never a “one and done” exercise. Successful students space their study time out over short periods of time and many sessions for each subject matter. You must set a consistent and regular study schedule. No night before the exam cramming is allowed.
2. Plan When You are Going to Study
Successful students schedule specific days and hours throughout the week when they are going to study and most importantly they stick to the plan. Keep a weekly routine which will ensure you develop study habits that enable you to succeed.
3. Study at the Same Time
Chose the correct “place” for yourself to study. Often times students study in areas of their homes that lead to constant distractions to the studying process. It’s really important to create a consistent daily study routine. Study in the same place, same time every day.
4. Study Goals
Every time you sit down to study you need to know exactly what you need to accomplish during the study session. Before you begin to study, set a session goal that supports your overall goal. (Ex. memorize all the Hematology disease states and cell morphology in order to be able to answer upcoming Hematology Case Studies).
5. No Procrastination
Never put off your study session because topics are difficult or because you have other things to get done (No Netflix episodes). Successful students Do Not Procrastinate.
6. Start with the Most Difficult Material First
If you begin your study session with the most difficult material first, you will give the entire study session the most effort and mental energy first. Once the most difficult material is mastered, the rest of the session will seem easy. This strategy actually improves the effectiveness of your study sessions.
7. Always Review All Your Notes Before Starting an Assignment
For this habit, of course, you must learn to take great notes in order to have notes to review. Take notes in class and review those notes daily. Reviewing your notes before every study session will help you remember important subject matter and make sure you’re studying is both targeted and effective.
8. No Distractions
If you are distracted while studying, you will find yourself unable to focus and lose your train of thought. Common distractions are TV, family members, or pets. Maybe you are one of those individuals that is distracted by “quiet,” if so, chose the appropriate background noise that works for you. Find the “best” place with the least distractions to optimize the study experience!
9. Join a Study Group
When it comes to studying, “two heads are better than one”. Working in groups enables you to get help if you are struggling with a concept. You can complete assignments, quiz each other out loud while helping to internalize the content for easier recall ability. Effective students use study groups to become effective learners.
10. Review Your Notes on Days the Courses Do Not Meet (Yes, weekends too!)
Successful students review what learning they have mastered during the week and over the weekend. This way they are prepared to continue learning new concepts that build on previous coursework acquired the previous week.
Now it’s your turn to give these 10 tips a try and see if you can master these habits and see a major improvement in your academic success.