Studying for exams can be hard, especially during midterms and the dreaded finals season. For many college students, a large aspect of that struggle ultimately boils down to the notion that they have not found a study technique that is just right. So, in the possibility that I am able to alleviate this dilemma for even just one student, here are some of the many study tips that could help with your next exam, from one Laker to another.
The first study tip up for discussion is the SQ3R method of studying. The SQ3R method is designed with the intention of helping students comprehend and retain information when working with written material, such as a textbook. This method consists of five steps – Survey, Query, Read, Recall and Review – each one just as crucial as the last.
Step one, Survey, consists of scanning and identifying the structure of the text. Query is the next step. The student is able to ask questions about each section of the reading material in this step. The third step kicks off the three r’s of SQ3R with Read. This is where the whole text is read rather quickly with no interruptions. Next is Recall, involving a look back at previous concerns and questions brought up in step two of the process, Query, aiding in the identification of which sections turned out to be helpful. Finally, the last step in this study method is Review, where important sections are slowly reread and notes are taken on pertinent information, along with references to where the information was found.
The second study method that I would recommend would be the use of a whiteboard. I was skeptical once too, but a whiteboard is the perfect tool for writing everything I know on a topic, allowing me to identify and then fill in the gaps within my own knowledge. This has significantly improved the confidence I feel in my abilities leading up to big quizzes and tests.
The study method one student at Lake Land College (LLC) uses the most is the “Total Divided Out Method,” which she also calls the “Information Method.” This student typically begins her studying by reading the required material once so that she has a basic level of understanding regarding what is actually within the textbook or whatever reading has been assigned. This is followed by a return to the text, but this time she is equipped with pen and paper.
“Then I’ll go back, and every time that there’s a highlighted or bolded term that they’re [the textbook] spending a lot of time on… I will write everything the book has to say about it as I am going through,” she mentioned. The student then went on to clarify, “The first time is read for completion, and the second is read for knowledge.”
When asked what she would say to her fellow students at LLC when it comes to studying, she commented, “Make sure that you save enough time for yourself and be consistent.” The student also encourages her fellow Lakers to do what feels right to them, stating, “Do what works for you, because if you’re not liking what you’re doing, then you’re probably not learning.”
Hopefully these tips will come in useful to you all, allowing you to walk into your classroom feeling confident and prepared on your next exam day!
