By: Katie Brailsford
Some teenagers have trouble studying for school. Sometimes this is the result of divided attention, with technology competing with homework for a student’s focus. Sometimes, students feel they don’t have enough time to study properly. Other times, students simply don’t know how to study. There are, however, some simple strategies for effective studying.
Set Achievable Goals. “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.” – Michelangelo Setting goals you know you can achieve within a reasonable amount of time can actually help you work through them faster. You should also give yourself a little reward after finishing a good chunk of an assignment, so you stay motivated.
Note Taking “I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen.” – Ernest Hemingway Your notes should be in your own language and should be taken in a way that is most helpful to you. You can’t expect to write down everything the teacher says, considering humans say about 225 words per minute. However, you can catch the most important information by jotting down what teachers repeat several times. Listening to key events can also help you put together important details such as dates of events; these will be the repeated events you hear from your teacher.
Colorful Notes “It is the supreme art of the teacher to awaken joy in creative expression and knowledge.” – Albert Einstein Try being creative with your notes such as color coding them. The brain loves color and vibrant notes will help you remember key details . You can also illustrate your notes and make diagrams. Color is what connects neural pathways within the brain. When the correct color is found for your problem subject, the subject becomes easier.
Organizational Skills “A place for everything, everything in its place.” – Benjamin Franklin Always keep yourself organized. No matter how hard it may be, it will save you valuable time. By being organized, you are allowed more time to do assignments or study. A good way to stay organized is keeping all your study materials (such as calculators, agendas, books, notebooks, etc.) in a convenient location.
Motivation “Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.” – Thomas A. Edison Motivation is the key to success in school. Teachers and parents may provide you with helpful hints and reminders, but you alone are responsible for your own motivation and assignments. By paying attention to your study habits, seeking out resources and assistance, and managing your time right, you’re more likely to retain motivation. The way you handle yourself at school will determine how you handle responsibilities within your future.
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