Resources: Study Tips

When cultivating productive study habits, it is important to work smarter, not harder. Research has indicated that the following study techniques are most useful for learning and retention. It is important to note that these techniques produce long-term mastery, though may be considered as more effortful.

Step 1: Pre-test: Engaging in pre-tests prior to learning the material is thought to stimulate future learning. With pre-tests, you are able to introduce and familiarize yourself with the material so that when future learning occurs, you are better able to consider the topics being explored. Pre-testing also improves post-test results. To engage in pre-testing, you may consider practice questions available within your textbook chapters and attempt the prior to reading the chapter.

Step 2: Space practice: It is also important to space out your study sessions so that you are focusing on small portions of the study material over several days. When spacing out the studying, you are increasing your ability to retain and understand the material.

Ideas for how to space out your studying:

1. Creating flash cards and self-quizzing over several days.
2. Create a guide for each topic
3. Think of examples that relate to you own experiences
4. Create a concept map or diagram to explain the material

Step 3: Self-quizzing may help with active retrieval practice and allow you to better recall the material on future exams or in future settings. You may ask your professor what type of questions to expect on the exam and create questions to self-assess your understanding of the material.

Step 4: Paraphrasing and reflecting: Practice intentional learning skills by pausing when reading the course material and reflecting on what you’ve read. Often times, when reading text, we are not retaining the material and thus, not learning it. When reflecting on the material, it can also be helpful to attempt at teaching it or paraphrasing it, so that you can see what areas might need more review before mastery.

Step 5: Pay attention in class and ask questions for concepts you are unsure about. Professors and graduate assistants hold office hours and are happy to answer any questions you have about the material. Make use of these valuable resources.

Step 6: Use the extra resources available to you: Remember, if you are having trouble understanding a concept, you can schedule an appointment with a PRC tutor. You can also review other resources provided below.

Page last updated 4:11 PM, September 16, 2024