7 Tips to study less and learn more
1. Study in 25-30 minute sessions
For the academic, there is nothing less effective than studying in “marathons” for long hours without pause. This statement is based, in addition to his personal experience and that of his colleagues, in a study of the University of Michigan that determined the period of optimum concentration of students . After half an hour of reading, the researchers found that the students were beginning to distract themselves and their understanding of the text began to resent.
2. Create a space for study only
Very few people are lucky enough to have a room exclusively dedicated to reading. In contrast, most study in their room, in the living room or at the kitchen table. However, being close to the bed or recreation spaces can dramatically increase the chances of distracting you.
3. Study actively
There is a difference in learning data , such as the name of a bone or the inventor of psychoanalysis, and learning concepts such as the function of that bone in the body or the goal of psychoanalysis. Many students try to memorize and repeat data and concepts alike. But the reality is that concepts are more important because once you understand them you will never forget them.
4. Take good notes
At the end of the class, you should review your notes and supplement them with additional information or consult with a classmate or teacher if you have not understood something at all. Be sure to do this as soon as possible.
5. Teach someone what you have learned
If you are able to teach someone the concept that was treated in class, it means that you have really learned it. You can also identify the “weak spots” in your understanding more easily.
6. Use textbooks well
Do not settle for just reading, as this is not enough. Lobdell proposes a quick reading of the chapter, questioning yourself if you have understood it, read it again, recite and review.
7. Use mnemonic techniques to learn data
Learning data can be simpler than learning concepts, but it is more likely to leak out of memory quickly. For this reason, the academic recommends to convert them into acronyms, phrasesFind Article, rhymes or associate them with images. This way you will remember them with ease.