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In this article, we’ll delve into different study methods that can elevate your academic performance and make the learning process more engaging and effective. From more advanced techniques to simple ones like getting cosy in your favourite loungewear, we’ve got you covered.
The Pomodoro Technique
Francesco Cirillo, a university student at the time, developed the Pomodoro Technique in the late 1980s. It was developed because he struggled with studying himself. He thought he’d go easy on himself and promise to stick to 10 minutes of studying. Encouraged by the challenge, he found a Pomodoro (tomato in Italian) shaped kitchen timer, and so forth, the Pomodoro technique was born.
Break down your study sessions into short, focused intervals (typically 25-30 minutes), followed by a brief break. This technique enhances concentration, prevents burnout, and helps maintain a steady pace throughout your study sessions.
Should an unforeseen interruption arise, take your five-minute break and resume where you left off. As interruptions (internal or external) happen, Cirillo advises keeping track of them and considering how to prevent them in your subsequent session.
Even if you complete your task before the timer goes off, the rule still applies. Spend the remaining time overlearning or expanding your knowledge or skill set. You could, for instance, use the additional time to read up on trade publications or look into networking possibilities.
This technique is great because you are ensuring you aren’t overloading yourself with vast amounts of information and gives you more structure so you can’t ignore things like keeping fit and healthy and social time. So during a break from studying, you could get on seamless leggings and crack back on with studies soon after with a mind reset.
Visual Learning and Mind Mapping
Visual learners take a lot of notes because they can recall 75% of what they read or see. They can read maps, so they have a good sense of where they are. They are usually tidy because they enjoy balance. Because they can see the information written down and remember where it is, they frequently perform well on tests in class. They might enjoy colour. Additionally, they might find it easier to concentrate if they are staring at someone who is speaking. If this sounds like you, then you are most likely a visual learner.
Create visual representations of concepts using mind maps, videos, graphs and so on. This method is especially beneficial for visual learners, as it helps organise information spatially and makes complex topics more accessible.
Study Groups
These are essentially groups of people who get together and talk about the lecture or assignment in place. Some people learn better from discussion or from how other people tend to understand the information. It can add to your knowledge but also make things that you weren’t sure about click into place from a different way of explaining.
Conclusion
Achieving academic excellence is not a one-size-fits-all endeavour. By exploring and integrating diverse study methods into your routine, you can tailor your approach to align with your unique learning style. Remember that the key lies in finding a balance that keeps you engaged, focused, and consistently progressing towards your academic goals.
