1. Make the Most of Class Time
Attend all class sessions, pay close attention to the lectures, and take notes in a way that makes sense for you. The goal is to be able to understand your notes when you review them later.

If you are participating in a digital classroom session, make sure you meet the technical requirements of the course by checking your internet connection, and having the recommended or required equipment, such as a laptop, second monitor, and headphones to help you.

“Taking good notes means you pay more attention during class,” suggests Oliver, a Chinese international student at the University of Kansas. “When you prepare for the test, it will be really helpful.” And if something does not make sense, raise your hand and ask, or make a note to follow up with your professor or teacher assistant (also known as a TA) after class.

2. Study with Classmates
In addition to making friends, forming study groups in each of your classes is a valuable — and fun — way to review for tests. Working together helps develop good study habits, increases collaboration on group projects, and boosts confidence. “Find a partner to compare notes with,” Oliver adds. “You can work together, study together, help each other, and push each other to be better.”

It is also important to make sure you and your study partners discuss relevant topics and stay focused!

3. Take Advantage of Office Hours
If you are having trouble with a concept or topic, your professors can help. Stop by during their office hours or email questions to your professor to understand the class material better, gain helpful tips on how to prepare for your exams or write a better essay. You will also create a relationship with your instructor that could lead to a valuable mentorship.

 

4. Create Flashcards
It may be helpful to rewrite important facts, concepts, and definitions on flashcards. Flashcards also let you quiz yourself without the help of others. Digital flashcards and learning apps can also assist with organizing and reviewing course material.

5. Find a Good Study Spot
Some people like the complete silence of a library setting, while others like the stimulation of a busy café. Some students prefer to work at their desks, while others may find a sunny outdoor spot more comfortable.

A star student at KU, Oliver prefers a quiet spot, away from distractions. “At home, you’ll want to fall asleep or play computer games,” he said. “So, I go to the library to study.” The best study environment for you is the one that feels most productive, so try out a few places to see which works best.

6. Switch it Up
Taking too much time on one subject can make you lose your concentration. One of the most important preparation tips for college exams is to change topics every 30 minutes or so to prevent learning fatigue. Revisit challenging topics once you have given your brain a break.

 

7. Read and Review — Early and Often
According to the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve principle, we forget 75% of what we have learned within 24 hours. Going over new ideas a day after class will help increase retention and comprehension — so make time each evening for a quick review. Break chapters into sections and review the material at the end of each before moving on. Make notes by summarizing the critical aspects of the reading so you can easily review them without having to reread entire chapters. Bookmark difficult sections to revisit later.

8. Stay Organized
You can organize your study plan by identifying your goals and objectives, and writing them down. This way, you can avoid procrastinating, track your goals, create a to-do-list, and find out the additional resources you need to stay on track.

Scheduling class meetings, homework, assignments, projects, and more is crucial to staying organized. Use a planner to keep track of deadlines, dates, and times so you do not forget anything important. Check your class syllabus for key dates and plan out time for reviewing your coursework.

9. Visualize the Material
Focus on the most important parts of your class notes by condensing the material and underlining or highlighting keywords and concepts. Not a fan of traditional written notes? Try reformatting them into charts, diagrams, mind maps, or outlines to create visuals that can help you make sense of complex concepts.

 

10. Find a Tutor
Tutors are available on most college campuses and are typically fellow students who specialize in or excel at a given topic.

 

 

 

Resources : Shorelight: Tips for Studying: 21 Best Study Tips for Final Exams
https://shorelight.com/student-stories/21-best-study-tips-for-final-exams/

Tarikh Input: 04/07/2024 | Kemaskini: 22/10/2024 | aslamiah