Did you know that the US high school graduation rate is at an all-time high of 85.3 percent?
If you’re studying for exams right now, you know it’s easy to become overwhelmed. With so much new information to process – and a lot on the line – many students struggle with study skills. But, it doesn’t have to be this way.
In this simple guide, we’ll outline seven practical studying tips to help you nail your revision and get the grade you deserve. Whatever subject you’re studying for, we’ve got you covered.
Read on and learn to study smarter!
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Keep a Workstation
Great study skills are based on focus. Keeping your workspace clean, tidy, and free from distractions is an excellent place to start.
If possible, choose a quiet space where you know you won’t be disturbed, and designate it as your workstation. Having one set place to study helps with consistency and routine: think of studying as going to work, and your workstation as your office.
Be sure to equip your workstation with everything you need. Have stationary, resources, and water to hand. That way, you can focus on your studies without needing to get up when you need something.
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Make a Plan
Making a study plan is crucial for time management. Your study plan is a roadmap of your goals, deadlines, and targets – allowing you to put your time where it matters.
While it’s tempting to leave your studies till the last minute, studies suggest that ‘cramming’ is less beneficial for long-term learning. While you might perform well on the test, your lack of deeper learning can lead to poor retention. Instead, study exam answers and take your time.
Be realistic with your study plan. Make sure to leave a few free periods so you can catch up on anything that takes a little longer than expected. Using a checklist throughout the day will help keep you on track and boost your motivation
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Use the Buddy System
Chances are you’re not the only one who’s struggling with their studies. Reaching out to your fellow students is a great way to approach your studies – you can discuss the subject material, support each other’s weaknesses, and offer insightful feedback on each other’s work.
Building a good study network allows you to brainstorm ideas, quiz each other, and make friends you can rely on.
Why not host a weekly study session, where all the members of your group meet to talk about the course? You can share any questions and concerns, and track one another’s progress as you hit team goals.
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Learn Your Way
Effective studying is a deeply personal thing. What works for one person may not be effective for someone with a different learning style. By identifying your own learning style, you can tailor your study approach and learn your way.
Some people are visual learners. That means they’re great at remembering the things they see. If you’re a visual learner, consider using documentaries, flashcards, and video demonstrations as learning materials.
Some students learn better by ear. Audial learners can benefit from audio lectures, dictated notes, and even pneumonic devices. Other people like to learn by doing practical things. Overall, most people are a mix of these learning styles, with a slight preference towards one style.
Experiment with different learning styles to find out which one works best for you.
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Take Breaks
Discipline is a very important study skill. However, it’s equally important to give yourself a break every now and again.
Apart from being stressful, long periods of study without a break lead to lower concentration, reduced efficiency, and poorer results overall. Wakeful rest gives your brain a chance to decompress, relax, and absorb what you just learned.
Make sure you give your brain ample rest, relaxation, and sleep in between study sessions so that it is ready to absorb new material. If possible, take a few hours out of each day to practice a hobby, read, or meditate.
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Reward Yourself
It can be difficult to maintain your stamina when studying. When you’re in it for the long haul, it seems like all you have to look forward to is more studying.
Rewarding yourself while working can boost interest and satisfaction. Giving yourself frequent small rewards, as opposed to one big one at the end, helps you maintain motivation throughout the process and boost your work rate.
When you next complete a particularly difficult study session, reward yourself with a sweet treat, a nice hike, or a favorite movie.
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Reach Out
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or panicky about your upcoming exam, don’t worry. It’s totally normal to feel that way and there’s plenty of help available.
If there’s an area that you need extra help with, reach out for the assistance you need as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to catch up.
You can find help from a variety of sources, both on and off campus. Ask your teacher, course representative, tutor, or fellow students for support.
Grade A Studying Tips Explained
Your upcoming exams are important, and if you want to get the grade you deserve, great study skills are a must.
Anybody can learn to study and review effectively. With these studying tips, an ample timeframe, and a little determination, you’ll see your studies soar.
If you found this article helpful, check out the rest of our blog for more education and career tips, tricks, guides, and advice.