Study Tips For Success

Study in short sessions – studying in short sessions of 30 minutes, with ten minute breaks in between is considered by many to be the most effective way to study. This “distributed learning” method keeps your mind focused and fresh, and is believed by some to help you retain information.

Prepare your mind – Do not study when you are angry, upset, emotional, overtired or feeling under the weather. Not only will it be more difficult to stay on task, you are less likely to retain the information.

Prepare your space– make sure that the space you will use to study is free from as much distraction as possible. The goal of studying is to focus your mind, and outside distractions may impair your ability to focus. Your space should be clean, calm, quiet and organized.

Prepare your body – ideally before studying you should be calm, and comfortable. Have a snack before you begin, and keep the water bottle handy. Learn to listen to your body, and fit your study time in when your mind and body are working well together. You may prefer to study after your workout, or after your shower, or first thing in the morning before the kids are out of bed.

Manage your time – If you schedule specific times for study and stick to them, you will get more accomplished than if you simply try and “fit it in” amid other responsibilities. Make a study plan that allows you study time, and a few minutes to review at the end of your session.

Remove Distractions – remove the phone and cell phone before you begin. If you require a computer for your work, log out of your personal email and facebook before you begin. Make an agreement with yourself that you save these things for your personal time.

Be a Study Buddy – if you have a friend or friends who are working on the same course material, pair up and work together. This gives you someone to talk to about the material, and can help you to stay motivated.