1) Set a routine time for studying, whether from 7-8pm every weekday, or from 2-5pm every Saturday. Whatever the time, stick to it.
2) Take breaks. You retain information more that way. So, for example, study for 45 minutes then take a 15 minute break. Walk around a bit, get a change of scenery; maybe even have a light snack. The need for breaks will vary greatly between individuals. Find the pattern that works best for you.
3) Study in a quiet place. It is very difficult to concentrate with people talking, the TV blaring, or music playing. If you must play music go for something in the classical genre, which will helps you focus. Lyrics drain your brain. And for goodness’ sake, turn off the smartphone.
4) If you can help it, don’t study late at night or just before bed. By this point in the day you’re tired and should be winding down for a good night’s sleep.
5) Speaking of which, make sure you’re getting enough good-quality sleep. 8 hours per night is ideal and sufficient rest will help you to concentrate.
6) Exercise! This all-round good-for-you activity increases focus and helps you sleep better.
7) Set small, achievable study goals, and give yourself little rewards for reaching those goals. For example, set a goal to read the first two sections of an assignment and then reward yourself with a break before moving on or answering the questions.
8) If you have lost all ability to concentrate or are dozing, just stop studying. Come back to it at a later time or even the next day.
9) Get organised. Tidy up your work space and make sure you have at hand all of the materials you’ll need. That includes pen, paper, eye glasses, course materials, question papers, and any other relevant sources or necessary items. Necessary items do not include chocolate bars or a 3DS.
10) Make use of our tutors and your fellow students. If you’re stuck on something, give us a call on 0121 392 8288. Your fellow students are also a great resource, and chances are that someone else has the same question. But what goes around comes around, so make sure you answer any questions you’re able to, as well.
I particularly like point 3 and would add ‘turn off Facebook’. Also take brief notes or jot down random thoughts to help the informations to sink in rather than having to re-read whole lots of work at a later time 🙂
Thanks for the tips 🙂
Good tips
do you have any tips for rediscovering your motivation? I’ve had a low study month and am finding it hard to get back into the swing of things! Some tips specifically for motivation would be really useful :o)
number 6, exercising lol this is not me, and for taking breaks its hard to take breaks then come back to study as you just can concentrate if you leave your work then come back to it.
These points are brilliant, I think the time making thing is a good way I remember when I was revising for my GCSES and A levels I made a time plan and like chose an other everyday to study history etc. and it worked well. Now I do full days of shift i.e., 8 in the morning to 10 at night and my shifts change I find it hard to do this but I agree it is a brilliant idea. I also agree with the taking breaks bit as sometimes I will study consistently for 2 or 3 hours and then not remember half of it as I have took to much information in at once. Great Blog!
these study tips are great, i will use these again and again 🙂 i have nearly completed my course now, but cant wait to do another and use these tips.. great blog..
Excellent study-tips!
I tend to forget about advice 4, and keep working until I realize the late time… But I have to say, I’m more energetic at night than in the day, and I know many people like me, who feel more productive in the night. Is that weird? lollll!