6.
Create a study plan – & stick to it
Another top study tip is to create a schedule or plan.
This is incredibly helpful for time management and can help you achieve your
learning goals.
A study plan will:
motivate you to study, as you’ll have time dedicated to learning
keep you organised around work, hobbies and other commitments, as you
can plan ahead
break your study load into manageable blocks
give you time to complete your assignments or SACs, ensuring they’re not
rushed and submitted last-minute.
Is studying at university very different to studying in high school?
The main differences between studying at university and studying at high school
revolve around accountability and autonomy.
High school teachers are more likely to chase down outstanding work. While you're
studying at university, the obligation is on you to get your work done and
submitted on time.
At high school, you have periods of locked-in time, which revolves around study,
such as 'free' periods. You also have homework that you're expected to complete
after school or over the weekend.
University life brings more freedom, allowing you to plan out your day. You can
independently choose when you wish to study, around commitments such as
classes and work, exercise and any social activities.
This is one of the main reasons why a study schedule is so helpful. Read more
about how to make an effective study plan.
7. Don’t just re-read your notes
Repeat after us. Reading is not studying.
When you are reading and re-reading texts and notes, you’re not exactly 'studying',
and may find it difficult to retain information. This is because you’re not actively
engaging with the material.
Instead of reading, try:
creating concept maps and diagrams
explaining concepts aloud to yourself step by step
formulating questions and problems that you can come back to and solve,
effectively creating a pop quiz for yourself
fulfilling the role of teacher or tutor to your study group or partner, and
learning the course material by explaining concepts to them.