Successful students have good study habits. However, sometimes even the best students need tips, reminders, and lessons about HOW to develop good study habits. Read about each study habit and work to develop any that you may need to improve!
1. Try not to do too much studying at one time. If you try to do too much studying at one time, you will get tired and your studying will not be very effective. Space out the work you have to do over shorter periods of time. Also, taking short breaks will restore your mental energy.
2. Plan specific times to study. Study time is any time you are doing something related to schoolwork. It can be completing assigned reading, working on a paper or project, or studying for a test. Schedule specific times throughout the week for your study time.
3. Try to study at the same times each day. Studying at the same times each day establishes a routine that becomes a regular part of your life, just like sleeping and eating. When a scheduled study time comes up during the day, you will be mentally prepared to begin studying.
4. Set specific goals for your study time. Goals will help you stay focused and monitor your progress. Simply sitting down to study has little value. You must be very clear about what you want to accomplish during your study times. Make a to-do list! Also, it feels good to cross items off as you go!
5. Work on the assignment that you find most difficult first. Your most difficult assignment will require the most effort. Start with your most difficult assignment since this is when you have the most mental energy.
6. Review your notes before beginning an assignment. Reviewing your notes can help you make sure you are doing an assignment correctly. Also, your notes may include information that will help you complete an assignment.
7. Work in a quiet room that is free of distractions. You will get the most out of your study time if you work in a room without music, the TV, video games, or other distractions. Here’s another simple idea – turn off your cell phone during your study times!
8. Ask a friend, sibling, or parent if you need help. Most of the time “two (or three) heads may be better than one.” If you are still having difficulty understanding an assignment, then make an appointment to see your teacher for help.
9. Review your schoolwork over the weekend. Yes, weekends should be fun time. But there is also time to do some review. This will help you be ready to go on Monday morning when another school week begins.
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