1.Routine
As the start of the year slowly turns into the end of the year, the habits that shine the most are consistency, understanding, and dedication. Taking notes in class frequently and consistently equips you with all of the course information in an organized format. Not only does this allow you to process the information and therefore learn it better, but it also allows you to make you reviewing your notes part of your routine, and therefore avoiding last-minute cramming (which prevents you from actually remembering the information).
2. Consistency
Just like a project that you would submit in class, consistency in your notes is just as important. Adapting tactics, such as using colours to colour code different concepts in your notes, such as terms, definitions, equations, examples, etc. will help your brain remember the information in addition to understanding it better. Don’t forget to be consistent with copying down examples in class, or finding the right answers to the homework questions – even if this means taking the time throughout the semester touch up your notes – it pays off!
3. Find Your Style
If you’re a visual learner, this would include pictures, mind maps and copying out the charts and graphics from your textbook. For a verbal learner, make sure to record phrases, quotes, and definitions into your notes. You may be a social learner, which means that you learn the best in groups. Or, it’s possible that you are a mathematical learner, meaning that you learn the best with making equations – to all things, even English! Keep in mind that everyone learns differently, so it’s important to find your style and adjust your notes accordingly.
4. Acronyms
No matter what type of learner you are, chances are that acronyms can be very useful to you. They are very common in most studies and have proven to be successful for a wide variety of students. For example, when someone takes piano lessons, they learn the notes on the treble clef by the acronyms and this is widely accepted as a universal way to study piano, thus proving the effectiveness of acronyms. “All Good Boys Deserve Fudge” names all of the notes, in order (A, G, B, D, F). Sometimes it’s easier to remember weird words, such as WACC or MOOVAT instead of your course terminology. This then will trigger your brain to group all of these terms into one acronym, therefore allowing you to study by a concept at a time, instead of getting overwhelmed with many terms and definitions.
5. Finish Your Notes
A study by Microsoft reveals that the average attention span has now reduced to 9 seconds, thanks to the use of smartphones. Considering each class is roughly 1-3 hours, it can be extremely hard for students to pay attention. This is especially true towards the end of class when our brain is not only needed more concentration to pay attention but is also experiencing information overload. For most students, the last few minutes of class are the hardest to pay attention, and therefore you are less likely to make efficient notes. To avoid blank pages in your notes, take the extra 10 minutes to finish writing down the main concepts in your class, and at home make a summary of the key points. This way, you will remind yourself of the information and be able to remember is better in your long term memory, in addition to assuming your notes cover all concepts.
6. Listen To Your Teachers
Listening to the material that your teacher is teaching in your classroom requires your brain to process the information and store it in your memory. While listening to the terminology of the teacher requires you to focus on what words are used, and the language of course, such as how to solve a math problem and write a conclusion, or how questions are asked, and also store it in your memory. Often, when explaining yourself and explaining your answers on exams, if you use this terminology the teacher can not only understand you better, but it will also trigger other words and concepts in your memory related to the course.
7. Write Down The Questions
While paying attention to the terminology is important, writing down the questions that were asked in class, assigned for homework, or used in a group discussion will make a great guide to prepare you for your tests. If you mark these clearly in your notes, you can then easily access them and use them as study questions.
8. Find A Study Buddy
What is better than 1 set of notes? 2 sets of notes! Finding a study buddy and comparing notes will allow you to check if you have covered all the key concepts in your notes, in addition to learning that information in a different way. Considering everyone learns differently, pairing up with a study buddy will help you adapt new learning styles and help you remember the information even better.
Want to kick off the school year on a good note? Book a free consultation to assess your learning level and style. We now offer to tutor in-person and online to ensure each student has the ability to reach their academic potential. ✨
