MATRIC STUDY GUIDE: What is the most effective way to study?

Finding the best way to study is an ongoing process. It is not something that can be left to the night before the test or an exam. It is important that to constantly improve your study skills to better understand what works and what doesn’t. Learning how to study better helps avoid panic and frustration the next time a big test or an exam is coming up. After all, you are most likely to well and be less stressed before a test/exam when you have had proper time to review and practice material.

Here are 12 effective study guides to help you:

1. Get organized: To help you with this, carry a homework planner at all times. Enter all your homework, due dates, projects, tests, assignments and exam dates as soon as they are assigned will make sure they aren’t forgotten about.
2. Pay attention in class: It is important to concentrate and avoid distractions when the teacher is speaking in class. Practice active listening by concentrating on what’s being said and taking notes in your own words. This will help you hear {and understand} what is being taught in class.
3. Steer clear of distractions: Distractions are everywhere- from cell phones to social media to friends. Be aware of what distracts you in class and know how to steer clear of these distractions. In class, avoid sitting next to a friend that talks too much and know will distract you. You can move places and sit in front if need be. Turn off your phone during class time; that way you will pay more attention to your teacher.

4. Make sure notes are complete: You must write clear and complete notes in class which will help you process the information you are learning. These notes will also become your study notes that can be reviewed before a test or an exam. Talk to your friends or your teacher if you had missed a class to complete your notes.
5. Ask questions if you don’t understand: Rise your hand if you have a question or don’t understand something in class. If you do not feel comfortable or you are shy to ask in front of your pupils, write yourself a reminder to talk to the teacher after class.
6. Make a study schedule or plan: When making a study schedule, look at your planner and think about what needs to be accomplished Think about the questions that will be on the test/ exam and the topics that will covered so you know what you should focus on. Set specific goals for each study session, like how many topics you will cover by the end of the session.
7. Review notes from class every evening: After school, review and expand on the notes from class. Reviewing notes will help you move material learned from short-term memory which will help next time you have an exam.

8. Talk to teachers: The job of a teacher is to help you do the best. Talk to your teachers for further clarifications or for extra lessons if you need it before a test or an exam. Taking the initiative to talk to the teacher goes a long way.
9. Designate a study area: The best study spot is one that is quiet, well- lit and low-traffic area. You can use your school library or community local library. If you are studying at home, make sure there is a clear workspace to study and write on. Everyone has got different needs, so it is important that you find a spot that works for you.
10. Study in short bursts: For every 30 minutes, you study, take a short 10-15-minute break to recharge. Taking short study sessions are more effective are more effective and they help you make most of your study time.
11. Simplifying study notes: Make studying less overwhelming by lessening notes from class. Underline, highlight key notes from class. Create visual aids, like charts, mind maps, story webs or outlines to organize and simplify information and help you remember better.
12. Study with a group: Studying in a group with classmates encourages an interactive environment to keep you engaged. This will give you a chance to test your knowledge with others, quiz each other on the content, and help boost each other’s confidence

STUDY SMART, NOT HARD!!