GNN Writers: Alyssa Borton, Alissa Ahrens, Hannah Park
As we get into the school year, we may feel stressed out about school. Tests, projects, and assignments take up a lot of our time and it never feels like we have enough time to do everything. The GNN writing group has come together to produce a Buzzfeed-type article to help you study less and more effectively.
The SQ3R method
Currently, several students use the SQ3R method for studying. The SQ3R method is a proven reading comprehension technique with five steps: Survey, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. First, skim the chapter, noting headings and standout features. Then, formulate questions about the content. Read the chapter actively, seeking answers to your questions. Afterward, summarize what you’ve learned in your own words and review the material, quizzing yourself on crucial points. This method enhances understanding and retention, making it an effective tool for efficient studying and final exam preparation.
Spaced Practice
Spaced practice, a powerful studying technique, emphasizes gradual learning over time rather than last-minute cramming. By spacing out study sessions over days and weeks, your brain is prompted to work harder during recall, strengthening memory retention. The process starts with initial learning in class on day one. Over the next few days, students revisit and review the material. This repetition enhances understanding and helps establish connections between concepts. Regularly spacing out these reviews helps in acing exams and tests and deepens your grasp of academic subjects.
Feynman Technique
The Feynman Technique is an efficient method of learning a concept quickly by explaining it in plain and simple terms. To use this technique, begin by writing down the concept you’re studying, then explain it as if teaching it to someone else, simplifying the language. Review your explanation, pinpoint mistakes, and correct them using your notes.
Study Apps
Apps such as Quizlet are flashcard apps that can help you revise definitions to ensure you are getting the wording just right. To make this fun you can do this with a friend in the same class. Revising with a partner just as committed to learning as you are makes you more productive and motivated. For auditory learners, recording yourself explaining a concept is also a good way to study a concept because it forces you to explain your thinking and acts as a personal podcast for yourself.
Rewrite. Rewrite. Rewrite.
If you find yourself in a last-minute study session, rewriting notes by hand is incredibly useful when cramming for a test. Through rewriting notes, your brain is rereading what you’ve learned in class; eventually, the answers become muscle memory.
A Good Playlist
When doing mundane tasks such as writing a paper or working on your class presentation, listening to music that you like can make you incredibly productive. Listening to one fast, catchy song on repeat helps many focus and complete their assignments significantly faster.
Everyone learns differently, and our brains process information at varying speeds. That is why we have a multitude of study habits and activities that help us learn. If you are struggling with homework, the Tutoring Club meets Tuesdays and Thursdays after school in the library annex to provide one-on-one support. You got this!
