10 Questions
What is the benefit of using more senses when learning new information?
It strengthens the neural pathways in your brain and improves memory
What is the recommended way to use a text as a study tool?
Highlight and mark important points, and write questions and comments in the margins
What is the benefit of talking about what you're reading with others?
It helps to reinforce learning and proves whether or not you understand the information
What is the purpose of reviewing notes and material?
To move information from your short-term to your long-term memory
What should you do when you hear unfamiliar words in class?
Write them down as best you can, then look them up later
Why is it important to leave extra space in your notes?
To supplement your notes with extra material from the text and handouts
What is the purpose of creating review tools?
To make studying more interesting and effective
What is a concept map?
A visual diagram of your notes with the central topic at the top middle of the paper
Why is it important to review and summarize your notes at the end of each topic or chapter?
To help reinforce learning and improve retention
What is the benefit of using a study group to discuss material?
It helps to reinforce learning and improve retention
Study Notes
Effective Study Techniques
- Create a study checklist to keep track of topics to be studied and check them off as you complete them
- Use 3x5 cards as review tools, writing a main topic or question on one side and the details or answers on the other
Memory Aids
- Use mnemonic devices to remember factual information, such as:
- Rhymes (e.g. "In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue")
- Creative sentences (e.g. "My very eager mother just served us nine potatoes" for the order of the planets)
- Acronyms (e.g. NASA, ROY G BIV for the colors of the rainbow)
Study Groups
- Join a study group to combine efforts, share notes, and learn new study techniques
- Set rules, limit the size of the group, and make it an effective study session
- Use index tabs and organized notes to facilitate study sessions
Creating an Effective Study Environment
- Set up a dedicated study area with necessary tools, such as notebooks, textbooks, and a computer
- Ensure the area is well-lit, free from noise and distractions, and not too comfortable
- Control for interruptions and try to study in the same place every day
Reading and Studying Textbooks
- Read the Table of Contents, prefaces, and introduction to get a head start on the class
- Leaf through the book to get familiar with its contents
- Preview chapters by looking at headings, subheadings, and review questions
- Ask yourself questions about the material as you read
- Read a section, put the book down, and ask yourself what you just read
- Don't skip any part of the chapter, and use multiple senses to reinforce learning
- Highlight and annotate the text to make it a study tool
Reviewing Material
- Review notes, outlines, and the text regularly to move information to long-term memory
- Read highlighted parts out loud and develop a habit of regular review
- Use a study group to discuss the material and quiz each other
Using Notes Effectively
- Add to your notes with extra material from the text and handouts
- Define unfamiliar terms and look them up later
- Clean up or rewrite notes for clarity
- Summarize your notes at the end of each topic or chapter
Creating Review Tools
- Design your own review tools, such as concept maps, to make studying more interesting and effective
- Use visual diagrams to organize notes and concepts
Discover effective study techniques, including creating study checklists, using 3x5 cards, and memory tricks to improve your learning and retention.
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