A successful school year consists of more than good grades. It’s establishing positive study habits that will create a foundation which is beneficial throughout the school year and beyond. Our team has compiled a list of 10 study strategies that should be implemented in every student’s tool kit.
- Set Clear Goals:
Identify what you want to achieve for each subject and write it down as a visual reminder. This helps you stay focused and motivated. Break long-term goals into smaller, achievable ones. Be patient and be consistent.
- Establish a Study Schedule:
Plan a consistent study routine. Break your time into manageable chunks (e.g., 25-30 minutes) with short breaks in between to keep your mind fresh (using methods like the Pomodoro technique). Consistency will create progress over time.
- Stay Organized:
Establish an organizational system that works for you. Keep your study space neat and clutter-free. Use folders, notebooks, and digital tools to organize your materials and notes for easy access.
- Active Learning:
Being an active participant in class will increase your success. Actively engage with the subject material. Instead of passively reading, summarize key points, create mind maps, or explain concepts to yourself or others.
- Prioritize Difficult Subjects:
Complete challenging subjects when your mind is the freshest & when you have more energy. Start with harder topics, then move on to easier ones.
- Study Regularly:
Review concepts on a regular basis, not just when preparing for tests. Apply what you’ve learned through practice problems, quizzes, or flashcards. This reinforces concepts and helps with retention. For example, if your parents ask, “what did you learn today?”, share with them a concept you learned. This will allow you to understand the material at a more deeper level.
- Take Effective Notes
Develop a note-taking system that works for you (e.g., Cornell Notes, mind mapping). Reviewing and summarizing notes soon after a class improves memory.
- Use Multiple Resources:
Don’t rely solely on one textbook or source. Use videos, podcasts, and other resources for alternative explanations and perspectives on the material.
- Stay Healthy:
Focus on your overall well being. Your brain needs rest, nutrition, and physical activity to function well. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly.
- Ask for Help:
If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to ask teachers, classmates, or tutors for help. Collaboration can deepen your understanding, increase confidence and improve grades.
Implementing these study strategies will build a foundation of academic success. Start with one of these strategies and build from there. Over time you will create a toolkit of many positive study strategies. Be patient and be flexible. These study strategies will create academic success in the classroom and beyond!
For more information on our tutoring and study skills program contact us at 215-657-1981.