10 Effective Study Techniques For Examinations

The key to effective studying isn’t cramming or studying longer, but studying smarter. You can begin studying smarter with these ten proven and effective study habits.The result can be better grades, greater knowledge, and higher self-esteem. These skills will also serve you well in your professional and personal life.

1. Make And Keep A Study Schedule.

Set aside certain hours of each day for study just as you do for nourishment and sleep. Keep the same schedule faithfully from day-to-day. The amount of time needed for study will vary for each individual based on skills with the subject matter.

2. Choose The Right Setting.

If concentration is your problem, then the right surroundings will help you greatly. Your study desk or table should be in a quiet place. You will concentrate better when you study in the same place every day. Developing the habit of studying in the same place at the same time everyday will improve your concentration.

3. Have All The Materials You Need.

Your study desk or table should be equipped with all the materials you might need to complete the assignment, e.g., pencils, pens, erasers, paper clips, stapler, dictionary, snacks, and liquid refreshments, etc. For some assignments, you may require a calculator or other supplies. With your materials at hand, you can study without interruption.

4. Don’t Rely On Inspiration For Motivation.

Can you imagine an athlete-in-training waiting for inspiration to strike to practice in preparation for an event? Of course not. They train daily to stay competitive whether they want to or not. Like the athlete, you must get in training for tests and examinations by doing the assignments and preparing daily through review to be ready for the action.

5. Keep A Well-Kept Notebook.

There is definitely a relationship between orderliness and high grades. Knowing where to find your materials when you need them is crucial. Keep a special section for each subject in your notebook as well as a semester calendar so that you can write down all important assignments as they are announced.

6. Keep A Careful Record Of Assignments.

Put it down in black and white this includes all the necessary details. Knowing just what you are expected to do and when you are expected to do it is the first giant step toward completing important assignments successfully and on time.

7. Use Flash Cards.

Flash cards aren’t just for kids! They are a legitimate study tool. Use the front of the card to write an important term, and on the back, write a definition or an important fact about that term. Carry your flash cards with you.

8. Take Good Notes.

Learn to take good notes efficiently as your instructors stress important points in class and as you study your assignments. Good notes are a “must” for just-before-test-reviewing. Without notes, you will need to reread and review the entire assignment before a test.

9. Over-Learning Material Enhances Memory.

The secret to learning for future reference is over-learning, and after you can say, “I know this material,” that you should continue to study that material for an additional one-fourth of the original study time. The alphabet is an example of over-learning because you learned it through recitation which is the best way to etch material into the memory trace.

10. Review Material Frequently.

The first review should come very shortly after the material was first presented and studied. Reviewing early acts as a safeguard against forgetting and helps you remember far longer. Frequent reviews throughout the course will bring rewards at test time and will alleviate pre-test anxiety.