How to Study, Part 1:

Study Methods - Basics

• Take good notes
• Repetition and Regularity are important – do the same thing over and over, and do it in the same way, at the same time each day.
• “Worst First” – study the stuff you’re not good at first, when your brain is fresh, and save the stuff you’re good at for last, when you’re less sharp.
• Use flash cards
• Take a break – 5 minutes of break for every 20 minutes of studying is good
• Use a kitchen timer – if you’re supposed to stuffy math for ten minutes, set the timer for 10 minutes; when it dings, you can decide if you need more time.  This will help you focus and keep from “drifting”.
• Get quizzed – either quiz yourself or have someone quiz you (maybe your “Comparing notes” partner)
• DRINK WATER – keep a glass/bottle handy and sip from it every few minutes; if you’re dehydrated, you’re more distracted and less receptive to information

Study Methods - Intermediate

• Memorize key words
• Repetition
• Write it down
• Read
• Make a game
• Quiz yourself
• Make a practice test
• Get a Study Buddy/Study Group
• Get someone to quiz you

Study Methods - Advanced

• Use Index/Flash Cards in new ways
• SQ3R
• M.U.R.D.E.R.
• Use mnemonics
• Make an acronym