As the school year comes to an end, ending with satisfying final grades is more important than ever. Effective study strategies can make a huge difference in our scores. Here are some proven tips to help you prepare and perform your best on tests and class assignments.
- Create a Study Schedule
Planning is very important when it comes to time management while completing assignments. Start by listing all your assignments and the topics you need to cover. Allocate specific times for each subject, breaking your study sessions into manageable chunks. Stick to your schedule and avoid last-minute cramming. One major issue that occurs when completing assignments is procrastination. To avoid this issue, place the object that is distracting you away from your study space.
- Find Your Ideal Study Space
Choose a quiet, well-lit place where you can focus without distractions. Keep your study area organized and make sure it has all the materials you need like textbooks, notebooks, and paper.
- Use Active Learning Techniques
Passive learning–such as reading textbook information or staring at diagrams–does not help you with your long-term memory. Engage with the material through active learning techniques such as summarizing information in your own words, teaching the material to someone else, or creating flashcards. This helps reinforce what you’ve already learned and improves retention.
- Take Regular Breaks
Your brain needs time to rest and process information while you are working. One popular method of working with breaks is the Pomodoro Technique. This method involves studying for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes. However, during those 5-minute breaks, do not pick up your phone or anything that may tempt you to extend your break for longer. Use this short amount of time to separate from your assignment, clean up your area, and tend to other tasks that are not school-related.
- Stay Healthy
Never underestimate the power of staying healthy. Make sure to get plenty of sleep, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated. Exercise can also boost your mood and energy levels, making your study sessions more effective. Teenagers are recommended to receive 8-10 hours of sleep every night to feel their best as good sleeping patterns can increase memory retention and morale.
- Study With People
Studying with peers can provide different perspectives and enhance your understanding. Join or form a study group to discuss difficult concepts, quiz each other, and share study resources. These people can help you stay motivated when studying for a long time and hold you accountable when you get off track.
- Use Online Resources
There are countless online resources available from educational videos and tutorials to interactive quizzes and apps. Websites like Khan Academy, Quizlet, and Coursera offer free tools that can supplement your study routine. If you are learning a subject that you do not understand, outside resources can aid in exploring other techniques for implementing the knowledge.
- Ask for Help When Needed
If you’re struggling with certain topics, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Teachers, tutors, and classmates can offer valuable support and clarification. It’s important to address your doubts early on rather than letting them pile up.
By following these tips and working diligently, you can create an effective study plan and approach tests and assignments with confidence. Good luck!
