I took a class on Learning and Memory in college. During this class I learned some essential study tips.
(sorry if there are any typos, i’ve copy and pasted this from posts on other sites I use)
Here is some of what I learned:
– Use various methods of studying including writing down questions and answers as well as reading them out loud
– Don’t study everything in topics, you need to mix it up. This may seem contradictory to common sense but it is better for your memory. So if you are studying Bears, don’t study habitat separate from mating habits, mix it up.
– You absolutely need to use retrieval methods. This means you can’t just read it and retain it. You have to use notecards or write out the questions and answer them without looking at the answers at first. You won’t retain anything for any period of time without using retrieval.
– Split up your study time. For example if you have only 4 hours to study it is better to study one hour each day than to study all four hours at once or splitting into two sections (although two sections is still better than studying all at once)
Other Tips:
– If you were drinking soda when you study it is best to drink soda when you take the test. If you always sit in the same spot in class, take your test in that spot. This is called state dependent memory.
– Get some sleep and eat breakfast. This honestly helps. It is more brain power.
– Use devices to help you remember (mnemonic devices). If it’s a list of five things you need to know then use the first letter of each item and make a word with it. This helps tremendously.
– The brain becomes less able to learn after 20 minutes of sitting so take several movement breaks
– Sitting in the front rows of class gets you better grades. They did a scientific study on this.
What I do:
I use notecards. It takes forever (2–4 hours) to write them all out but it is worth it. The time it takes to write them out actually helps you retain the information. Then I mix them up really good.
After that I split them up into sections of ten. I study ten at a time until I have them memorized. Then I study the next ten. Then I’ll combine those two and study that twenty. Etc.. until I am finished. This is the first time then after that it usually comes easy and I can just go through the whole batch. This works so well! When I sit down at a test information spews out of me. It’s great.