Study smarter, not harder! Here are a few study tips so you can ace any exam that you have this spring.
Reading is an important part of pre-studying, but learning information requires actively engaging in the material.
After you read through the material, here are some ideas for active studying:
- Create a study guide by topic. Formulate questions and problems and write complete answers.
- Create your own quiz.
- Say the information aloud in your own words as if you are the instructor and teaching the concepts to a class.
- Derive examples that relate to your own experiences.
- Create concept maps or diagrams that explain the material.
- Develop symbols that represent concepts.
- Write or type out the information in notes or create a PowerPoint with the information.
Things to keep in mind:
- Spacing out is good. Spacing out your studying over several short periods of time over several days and weeks is the most effective practice.
- Silence isn’t golden. Know where you study best and keep in mind that active studying is rarely silent.
- If you like to listen to music while studying, consider checking out Lofi Girl on YouTube, who has a bunch of different beats to relax and study to, depending on your mood, vibe, or interest!
- Reconsider multitasking. Eliminate distractions during your study sessions.
- Switch up your setting. Find several spaces to study to change up your space.
- Use downtime to your advantage. Use the extra hours to get ahead on assignments or start big projects or papers.
- Use all your resources! See below for some resources from the Algonquin Public Library.
Resources:
- Homework Resources
- Here is a list of all of the different homework resources you can use with your Algonquin Library Card! Some of them are even open resources that anyone can use regardless of library card status. Check it out!
- Brainfuse HelpNow
- On demand, anytime, anywhere eLearning. Brainfuse HelpNow includes homework help, PSAT/SAT, ACT, AP and state standardized testing tutoring, skills-building, personalized eLearning tools, 24-hour writing lab, and a foreign language lab.
- LearningExpress Library Complete
- Your source for test preparation, skill building, and career resources for high school and college students.
Good luck and happy testing!