As the winter semester starts in full swing, it’s time to explore the proven ways of effective studying. The following information provides four tactics to potentially improve study habits.
Make a schedule that can satisfy short-term goals
Along with scheduling in lectures, labs, and tutorials, it is beneficial for you to schedule designated study periods into your weeks. Studies from Dr. John M. Grohol—an author and researcher of mental health—have shown that cramming is ineffective for retaining relevant material. Thus, have consistent study periods in your schedule for more exposure to course material. This will commit the information to long-term memory, which, according to Grohol, creates a more expedited retrieval process when recalling information. The key to successful studying is consistency, not frequency. Having a schedule that you can stick to will improve your classroom performance.
Keep a healthy, active, and balanced lifestyle
Maintaining a consistent healthy lifestyle in addition to juggling academics, work, extra–curriculars, social life, and other commitments is a daunting task. That being said, learning ways to balance all these aspects can have positive effects. Finding multiple outlets of interest to explore will help improve discipline and time management which will in turn improve academics.
According to an article from Harvard Medical School, exercising regularly releases vital hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine that coordinate to improve health, concentration, and attention. Including regular exercise with healthy eating habits is most effective. Exercising can be as simple as going for a walk. There is no single right way to exercise; there are options for everyone.
In addition, a report from the journal of Science suggests maintaining consistent sleep patterns. Sleep is crucial for committing learned material to memory. All-nighters are detrimental to this process.
Know what the expectations are for a class
It is always a good idea to be aware of the expectations of a course. Before exam season, midterms, or tests, look through the syllabus and take note of major themes and ideas that might be prevalent in exams or assignments. Taking note of the parameters of the course and the professor or TA’s expectations will reduce some of the traditional stresses associated with taking a class, as is highlighted through a research article published by the journal of Applied Cognitive Psychology
The same article suggests that looking through an exam before working on it will reduce test anxiety and improve performance. The Old Exams Repository at UofT has a large collection of past exams for some courses. It is a useful tool that allows students to practice potential questions they might face.
Take breaks and reward yourself
Finally, overworking yourself is a danger of student life. An article from the Elsevier Mental Health and Physical Activity journal suggests that taking breaks periodically and rewarding yourself can encourage an attitude shift which can improve overall productivity. Similarly, combining general exercise with breaks can have a heightened effect.
These tips are suggestions that can assist you in the winter semester. Hopefully, by trying them you’ll find a method that works for you and helps you succeed this year.
