Study Strategies
Studying effectively isn't just about how much time you spend studying. It also matters how you use that time. Finding study strategies that work for you can help you better understand, remember, and apply what you are learning.
Prepare Before Class
Studying doesn't have to wait until after class. Pre-studying can help you get more out of class by giving you a basic understanding of what you'll be learning and helping you identify questions you want to ask.
Before class:
- Complete assigned readings and other preparation.
- Preview the day's material and look over headings, key terms, examples, or other important information.
- Review your notes from the previous class.
- Write down questions about anything you don't understand.
- Come to class ready to listen for connections and important information.
You don't need to understand everything before class. The goal of pre-studying is to become familiar with the material so you are better prepared to learn it in class.
Be an Active Learner
Simply reading or looking over your notes isn't always enough. Look for ways to actively work with the material.
- Ask yourself questions as you study.
- Try to explain a concept in your own words.
- Create your own practice questions.
- Make connections between ideas.
- Create outlines, diagrams, or other study aids.
- Teach the material to someone else.
- Test yourself instead of only rereading your notes.
Space Out Your Studying
Don't wait until the night before an exam to start studying. Learning takes time, and reviewing material more than once can help you retain it.
Instead of one long study session:
- Start studying several days before an exam.
- Break the material into smaller sections.
- Review material you've already studied before moving on to something new.
- Take breaks during longer study sessions.
- Return to difficult material more than once.
Use Different Ways to Study
Different courses and different types of material may require different study strategies. Try more than one approach and pay attention to what helps you actually understand and remember the material.
Strategies to try:
- Flashcards
- Practice questions
- Study guides
- Study groups
- Mnemonics and acronyms
- Teaching someone else
- Spaced repetition
- Reviewing old exams when available
Resources:
- Techniques for Enhancing Your Memory
- Improving Your Memory
- Studying vs. Learning
- How to Study effectively with flash cards
- Using Spaced Repetition to Study
Find What Works for You
There isn't one study strategy that works for everyone. Pay attention to which strategies help you understand and remember material, and be willing to try something different when what you're doing isn't working.
Use Your Resources
You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Your professors, academic advisor, tutors, and other campus resources are there to help you be successful.
If you're struggling with the material, ask for help sooner rather than later. Talk with your professor during office hours, ask questions in class, connect with tutoring or other academic support, or talk with your academic advisor about what you're experiencing.