There are as many study strategies as there are students, but perhaps you’ve mainly stuck to the basics, like flash cards and taking copious notes. Since retaining and recalling information is about much more than reading, why not try some novel approaches?
Using multiple strategies will make information stick more than using just one. Here are some creative ideas to rescue you from the studying doldrums.
Many students get a boost from knowing the “why,” or purpose, of material they’re being taught. For example, you might ask, “How does this concept play out in real situations?” This can help you embed information more thoroughly in your memory, and recall it more accurately.
Test Yourself
As you read through material, think to yourself, “How might my instructor frame a test question?” In a recent Student Health 101 survey, 72 percent of respondents indicated that they use practice tests when studying.
Make it Bright
Jazz up your notes with highlighters. Andrea B., a junior at Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, says, “My favorite ways to study are highlighting and color-coding. Colors make it fun and easier for me to remember.” If highlighters are too bright for you, try underlining with colored pencils instead.
Acronyms
We remember things that make us laugh. If you have to memorize a list, why not make it into a funny acrostic sentence, like “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally” (for the order of operations) from high school algebra class?
Concept Sheet
A more positive spin on the “cheat sheet,” this is a piece of paper with the most important points from your study material.
Social Studying
Group studying can be helpful.
Playback
Cindy B., a graduate student at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, says, “My favorite strategy for memorizing is to make a master document that synthesizes all the information, then record it and listen to it while driving.”
There are also millions of free podcasts available for download online. For example, RadioLab, a National Public Radio program, focuses specifically on exploring perspectives in science and philosophy. The hosts use a unique audio production style to make dense topics understandable.
Break It Down
Dr. Damien Clement, a professor at West Virginia University in Morgantown, explains that material will seem much less daunting when divided up, so start reviewing at least a week before an exam.
Studying can sometimes feel like a drag, but with some creativity, it can be more effective, and even enjoyable.
Anna-Marie is a West Virginia University doctoral student in sport and exercise psychology.
Color code information in the way that suits you best. You can use highlighters, colored pencils, or pens.
One option is the stoplight method. It an be used three different ways:
Another clever way to use this method is by making three piles of flashcards. Color-code the cards based on this color scheme, and circulate the red cards the most.
For a given assignment or course, create a “cheat sheet” of essential information. Referring to it often will help solidify the concepts. You can include:
Use the concept sheet to quiz yourself regularly. Just remember, you can’t actually bring it to an exam unless specifi cally permitted by the instructor.
