Successful students work hard to achieve their goals. It doesn’t happen without intentional study and productive work. Try some of the study tips that the most successful students use so that you can improve your outcomes.
Start With The Hard Material
According to Education Corner, successful students start with the most difficult things first. It can be easy to put off your least favorite subjects, the most difficult and involved projects, and the hardest problems. If you spend all of your time on the topics you already know and understand, you won’t have time left to really improve your skills in difficult subject areas.. Instead, start your study sessions with the challenging topics and then end your study session with a review of easier subjects. Not only will you have the time you need to really learn the difficult material, but you will end your session feeling confident about your abilities. Positive feelings when you end your study session will make it easier to start your next study session with a positive outlook.
Engage
Highly successful students stay engaged. They come to classes prepared. They have done the required reading. During class they ask questions, participate in discussions, and ask for help when they don’t understand. Many students have a fear of looking dumb in front of the class, so they avoid participating. Successful students may have this fear too, but they set it aside so that they can progress and learn. Staying active in class sets students up for more productive study time. Engaging with the material before and during class makes review simple afterward. Students who feel unsure about the best ways to prepare for and participate in class can talk with their teachers about how to engage in class.
Don’t Cram
Staying organized, studying diligently, and making a plan are all things successful students do so that they don’t need to cram. Staying organized will ensure all of your homework assignments are turned in on time. Notes will be easily accessible, legible, and cover all of the material. Taking time each day to review notes and texts will prevent needing to study for extended periods of time before a test. Planning a little time each day and ramping up that time as exams approach will eliminate all nighters. Planning and organization can cut down on stress and anxiety in the days that approach an exam or big project.
Study Well
Successful students study well. They use whatever method is productive for them. They maximize their time, engaging with and learning material as they go, rather than right before a test. They prepare ahead of time for class and engage in class, asking questions and offering insight. These students also plan for regular study and avoid cramming as a way of preparing for a test. Try these tips when you study so that you can achieve your goals.
