How to do an do an effective study
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to effective studying, but there are methods to improve recall and long-term memory. Everyone has different learning techniques, so keep trying until you find the best method. VU students can achieve their full potential by developing confidence, academic ability, and study skills. Top tips for effective study include:
Practice regularly to determine the best study method for you.
Focus on developing essential skills for university.
1. Organize yourself
Organizing your study schedule is crucial for achieving learning goals. Investing in a diary to track deadlines is a good idea. Bring the necessary materials and devices to class, and pack your bag the night before to ensure you’re ready for the day. You’ll be more driven and concentrated as a result.
2. Attend all classes!
Skipping class can hinder learning and study goals, leaving gaps in notes and subject knowledge. VU’s Block Model® aims to provide more time for work, social life, and other commitments by focusing on one unit over a four-week period. By attending three-hour workshop-style classes three times a week, students can dedicate the rest of their time to study, work, or social life. Active listening and taking notes are essential for effective learning.
3. Jot down notes
Take notes during class to keep your brain engaged and store information in long-term memory. Condense your notes after class for clarity and easy reading. Underline or highlight key points and seek clarification from your teacher if needed. Visual aids like flow charts and mind maps can help simplify information and improve memory. If you miss a class, ask a study buddy or classmate to refer to their notes to ensure no gaps in your own notetaking. This will help you review and complete assessments and assignments effectively.
4. Speak with your instructor and make inquiries
The VU Block Model is an interactive learning approach that focuses on one subject at a time, allowing students to get to know their teacher. This work-shop-style class allows for quick feedback and clarification on confusing topics. Teachers can also provide guidance on assignments before submission. The initiative of students in this approach is expected to impress their teacher, who will be happy to help.
5. Take breaks from studying
Breaking up study sessions over several days is an effective method for better retention of information. This method helps deeply ingrain the information, allowing it to be retained for the long term, leading to better results and better overall learning experience.
6. Make a study schedule and follow it
A study plan is a crucial tool for effective time management and achieving learning goals. It motivates study time, keeps you organized, breaks study load into manageable blocks, and allows time for assignments to be completed without being rushed or last-minute. It also helps break down work, hobbies, and other commitments into manageable blocks.
7. Study instead of just rereading
Reading and re-reading texts and notes is not effective studying as it doesn’t engage with the material. Active studying techniques can help remember class notes. Instead of reading, create concept maps, explain concepts to yourself, create quizzes, and become a teacher or tutor to your study group or partner, learning the course material by explaining concepts to them.
8. Create a calm area for studying
A designated study area is crucial for effective learning and motivation. Choose a quiet, well-lit, and low-traffic area, away from distractions like housemates or family members. If home study isn’t suitable, consider visiting a local or university library, which often has designated study areas. Victoria University has seven libraries across its campuses, and student lounges and learning spaces are also available.
To avoid distractions, switch your phone to silent or off during your study session. Use apps like Freedom or FocusMe to block non-essential apps from your phone while you’re studying. This will help you focus on learning and avoid distractions.
9. Give yourself a test
Quizzing is a valuable retrieval practice that helps you commit information to your long-term memory and easily retrieve it when needed. It also aids in recalling answers and writing them down. To enhance learning, create flash cards with questions or prompts that trigger recall of relevant information. Ask a parent, friend, housemate, or study buddy to quiz you using these flash cards. The act of creating them alone enhances information retention and is an effective study technique.
10.Find a study companion or sign up for a study group
Sharing study experiences with a study buddy or group can significantly improve motivation, accountability, and resource sharing. These individuals can quiz, test, offer advice, and share resources, such as textbooks, thereby reducing expenses. Identifying a study buddy or group can lead to better results and more effective study. Learn more about how to find such a partner or group.
How do you study most effectively?
Since every student is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all method for studying, and what works for one student may not work for another. It will help you understand how to study if you experiment with a variety of methods before deciding on one that suits your needs.
