The last thing you want to do in college is walk into a classroom for a test feeling ill-prepared. Tests usually cover a lot of material, sometimes even a whole semester’s worth if it’s a final.
It can be tough to obtain effective study skills , especially when you’re a freshmen entering college. College is much different from high school and requires a lot more work.
How can you remember and understand all the material?
First, you’ll want to attend class, take good notes, participate in discussions and complete assignments. If you’re not learning the material throughout the semester, you will likely struggle when it comes to hitting the books to study.
Even if you’re doing all your work during the semester, you’ll still need to study before a test because it’s very likely
you’ll need a review.
4 steps to help you study effectively:
1. Read notes and key points
Those notes you took during class can finally be put to use. Review your notes and highlight any key points you think will be on the test. Sometimes professors hand out study guides to help you focus on the important material while studying. If you have a guide, go through the list and go back through your notes or book to read over any material you need to understand better.
2. Ask questions
After you review your notes and book, write down any material you are having trouble understanding. Professors often have office hours or respond to questions through email. They are usually happy to help. After all, they don’t expect you to understand everything when there’s a lot to cover. It helps to ask questions a few days in advance so you have time to still review.
3. Type out a study sheet or create note cards
This method often depends on the type of class. If you’re taking an Art History class where you’ll need to remember artwork, names, and dates, you will probably want to use note cards. If you’re studying for a science class where you’ll have to learn more facts and understand how the science works, you may want to use a study sheet. Both methods are helpful because you are reviewing the material as you write it out. Once complete, you have an easy way to memorize facts and terms.
4. Review, memorize and understand material
Once you understand the material and have organized resources to review, you can start focusing on memorizing. Continue to go over your study sheets or cards until you feel confident that you will remember the material when taking the test. It helps to go over notes days before and split up study sessions so you can test your memorization.
When it comes to studying, usually hard work pays off. You can do well on a test as long as you put in the effort to know the material. Follow the above steps before a class to help you ace your next test. Happy studying!
