Improve your study skills

Everyone can benefit from improved study skills, especially those who are returning to school after a lengthy time off. Better study habits mean three things for learners:

1. Higher grades
2. Ability to retain more information after the course is over
3. Less time spent on schoolwork

Higher grades and more retained information, plus you spend less time studying – is this possible? Sounds like something worth learning more about! This article will walk you through the fundamentals skills of studying, taking you from the time before classes even start to your very last exam.

Before Classes Begin

Even before you step foot in a classroom, or receive your first distance-learning package, your study skills should be coming into play. Here are some ways that you can set yourself up for a successful learning experience:

• Designate a study area. This can be anywhere in your home or even at a remote location, such as a library. The important thing is that your study place is a pleasant environment that is free from interruptions and distractions
• Ensure that your study area is well equipped. Everything that you need while studying should be on hand. The fewer times that you have to get up and look around for something, the more time will be spent on studying. If you are planning to study away from home, then a well-equipped study area will mean a well-stocked bag
• Ensure that your study area has enough space. If you need to spread out several books or papers in order to study, then make sure that your study area has the room you need. If not, consider purchasing a small side table or pulling over an extra stool to help
• Make sure the space is pleasant to be in. You will be more likely to study for long periods if you enjoy your environment. This means selecting a study area that is pleasantly decorated and well cleaned, with a comfortable desk and plenty of light (preferably natural). The area should also be the right temperature so you are not distracted by being too hot or too cold

By taking the time to organize your study area before the learning begins you will ensure that even your very first day of studying is as effective as possible – setting up a habit of success.

While Studying

As the assignments and test start rolling in take the time to organize yourself into a reasonable study schedule. Be sure to give ample time for each task and make the best use of that time by following this advice:

• Eliminate interruptions. Think of interruptions as drains on your time – not only do they distract you from your studying, they also set you back in your efforts since you often have to retrace your steps to find where you were in your reading or assignment
• Eliminate distractions. Do not study in places where you can become easily distracted or procrastinate. This means staying away from the television and even the kitchen. It is OK to play music while you are studying as long as you keep the volume low
• Take frequent, scheduled breaks. You can schedule your breaks to occur at a specific time or after a certain milestone in your progress. The important thing is to always take the breaks and be sure to limit their length to 10 or 20 minutes

By following these strategies and staying focused on your goals you will be well on your way to learning more and studying more effectively. Now the only thing left to do is sit down and actually hit the books!

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