Students Tips
Read these 10 Students Tips tips to make your life smarter, better, faster and wiser. Each tip is approved by our Editors and created by expert writers so great we call them Gurus. LifeTips is the place to go when you need to know about Psychological tips and hundreds of other topics.
Study Tip: Timing
Try to study at the same time each day. By setting a discrete period of time aside for studying each day, your mind gets used to the pattern and it becomes easier to work during that time. You'll spend less time warming up and more time effectively studying.
Time Management Tip for Students
Make extra time for yourself. How? Make use of wasted time. Carry pocket work, something that you can do while waiting. Whether it's reading for the train, or flash cards to study. Ten minutes here, fifteen there; it adds up. Plus, cognitive psychology and memory research has shown that we can recall more information if we study in short periods rather than long ones, so you just might learn more!
Study Often, Not Longer
Psychological research shows that the more often you are exposed to material, the more likely you are to recall it later. This means that you need to have more study sessions, not necessarily longer study sessions. A 45-minute study period for four days a week will be more effective (and less exhausting!) than one 3-hour block.
Time Management for Students
Having difficulty keeping up with all of your activities? Feel more in control by keeping a schedule. Sounds obvious, but you'd be surprised at how many students don't follow this advice. Buy an academic planner (you can find one in the college bookstore) and use it. Record all assignments, due dates, study sessions, and appointments with faculty. Schedule time to study too!
Study & Memory Tips
You've got a test coming up; how can you improve your memory? Psychological research shows that the more exposure to material, the more likely you are to recall it later. This means that you need to have more study sessions, not necessarily longer study sessions. Break up your studying with frequent breaks. The key to recalling information later is to make it meaningful. As you read and study, think about the material. Consider how it fits with what you already know and ask questions about it. Try to come up with examples of the phenomena you're studying and you'll be much more likely to recall the material later.
Need to Pull and All-Nighter?
If you've got a deadline that requires that you work all night, try these tips:
1. Unless you can sleep for at least 3 hours, don't nap because it can make you more groggy.
2. Don't overload on caffeine or you'll feel much worse. More than 4 cups can make you tired and dehydrated.
3. Move around periodically to wake yourself up. Do jumping jacks, go for a drink of water, do anything!
Remember What You Read
Active reading is the key to remembering what you read. Don't just read the words, think about the material. Stop and consider the ideas; how do they fit with what you already know. Ask yourself questions. Try to come up with examples of the phenomena you're studying. Sure, active reading is more difficult and requires more energy, but that's why it works.
Defeat Procrastination!
Don't let procrastination keep you from success! Make a list of all that needs to be done. Set priorities by numbering the items on your list in the order of their importance. Start with your number one priority and work your way down. Break large items/tasks (e.g., writing a paper) into smaller, more manageable components. Set realistic deadlines for each item or component item. Reward yourself (with a short break, a round of a video game, 15 minutes of web-surfing) after completing each item.
A Study Routine
Try to study at the same time each day. By setting a discrete period of time aside for studying each day, your mind gets used to the pattern and it becomes easier to work during that time. Similarly, create or find a study place. Your study place should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions. Can't find that in your dorm? Try a quiet cubicle in the library. If you stick to a routine study time and place, psychological research suggests that you'll spend less time warming up and more time effectively studying.
End Procrastination
Facing a big project and don't know where to start? Start small. Make a list of all the small steps needed to complete this big project. Then start anywhere on the list. All too often we thin we must start at the beginning of a project – start where it feels right. You'll gain momentum as you check off the items on your list and make progress towards your goal.
| Guru Spotlight |
| Linda Handiak |
