2021, week 4: Study Tips

There's no one "right" way to study. But I'm graduating in a few months, so I figured I might be a credible source to supply college study tips. :)

First, here's some background info:

• I'm getting my Bachelor's of Science in English, with an emphasis in Creative Writing, but I went through a few majors.
• I attended several universities, as follows. 
• Brigham Young University Independent Study
• online only
• general studies
• University of Alaska Fairbanks
• in person
• general studies
• Latter-day Saints Business College (now Ensign College)
• in person
• emphasis in administrative assisting
• Brigham Young University-Idaho
• hybrid
• Pathways program
• Dixie State University
• in-person pre-pandemic then hybrid
• early childhood education
• elementary education
• secondary education,
• English with emphasis in creative writing

Here are my top 3 study tips:

• Schedule it.
• Have a routine.
• If needed, involve others.

Schedule it.

How do busy people accomplish so many things? They schedule different tasks and they (for the most part) stick to the schedule.

A common mistake (among all adults, whether they're in school or working professionals) is that we don't take the time to make a schedule. Now, I'm not saying that you have to color code or schedule every single minute of the day. But before the week starts, look at the upcoming week and plan in your classes and when you will study.

Knowing that you have set aside 2 hours during the week to write a research paper or work on a specific assignment will lessen (to some degree) your stress and give you a clearer view of your timeline.

Have a routine.

This can go hand-in-hand with scheduling. For some people having the same schedule every week is what they need to be productive. Other people might simply have a study routine.

My study routine is simple: start my study playlist (I've got 2 YouTube study videos that I use this one and this other one), grab a snack, and set a 20-minute timer.

I start with 20 minutes and sometimes I'm able to complete my task in that time frame. However, if I need more time, then I take a 5-minute break. I keep my study music on, but I get up and do something for a few minutes. Then, I go back to my task.

I only study/do school work for 1 hour at a time. If I need more time, then I make sure to have a 30-minute break.

If needed, involve others.

Involving others in studying and homework might not seem like the best idea. Here are some scenarios where it might be good: proofreading, study groups, group projects, interviewing others.

I remember having a study group for my early British Literature class. If I hadn't participated in that study group I guarantee I would have failed.

At the very least, if you are studying at home and could possibly be interrupted, make sure to communicate to your roommate(s)/family that you are doing homework and that you need quiet/minimal interaction/or whatever your expectations are.

I hope these study tips are helpful! What other tips do you have?

Are there other college topics you'd like me to write about?

Love,

D. J. Lathrop