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How to be a better student
#studying-tips #school #higher-education
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Jorge’s Answer
Ahmad,
Its been a while since I was a student and my most recent experience was finalizing an MBA at an older age (Which was fun however not easy).
I do however have a son that is a very good student and getting ready to go into his 1st year of college. Here are some of the key items I have experienced or observed from my son that have contributed to positive results on the education front.
- Class attendance and active participation is fundamental. It is important to take notes and to ask questions especially when something is not clear. Many students are uncomfortable asking questions due to how it may be perceived, put that aside and make sure you are getting what you need from the class and your professor.
- Set aside time for your studies / Homework / That time should be spent without distractions. The biggest obstacle in the initial stages with our kids have been the multiple distractions that are readily available such as friends, Music, siblings and especially social media. Turn all of that off!
- Do not wait until the last minute to start studying for exams or projects. Procrastination is one of the biggest flaws associated with students. Start studying for exams in a timely manner, you will not be able to cram it all in the night before and learn the material effectively. Especially if the subject builds on itself week after week.
- Lastly I would say, do not be afraid to ask for help including tutoring services many schools provide. These are resources often available to you and at no cost that should you have the need you must leverage.
Regards and I hope you find this helpful.
Jorge
Its been a while since I was a student and my most recent experience was finalizing an MBA at an older age (Which was fun however not easy).
I do however have a son that is a very good student and getting ready to go into his 1st year of college. Here are some of the key items I have experienced or observed from my son that have contributed to positive results on the education front.
- Class attendance and active participation is fundamental. It is important to take notes and to ask questions especially when something is not clear. Many students are uncomfortable asking questions due to how it may be perceived, put that aside and make sure you are getting what you need from the class and your professor.
- Set aside time for your studies / Homework / That time should be spent without distractions. The biggest obstacle in the initial stages with our kids have been the multiple distractions that are readily available such as friends, Music, siblings and especially social media. Turn all of that off!
- Do not wait until the last minute to start studying for exams or projects. Procrastination is one of the biggest flaws associated with students. Start studying for exams in a timely manner, you will not be able to cram it all in the night before and learn the material effectively. Especially if the subject builds on itself week after week.
- Lastly I would say, do not be afraid to ask for help including tutoring services many schools provide. These are resources often available to you and at no cost that should you have the need you must leverage.
Regards and I hope you find this helpful.
Jorge
Updated
Carla’s Answer
When I was in college the most difficult thing for me was time management and procrastination. The most valuable advice I got was to plan time daily and weekly for studying the material, not just doing homework or writing papers. You should spend 2 hours reading and studying for each hour you are in class. So if you are taking a 3 hour class you should schedule 6 hours a week to study. The easiest way is to do it right after the class so the material is fresh in your mind. Take good notes during class when the professor is speaking, and take a lot of notes when you are reading the books. Highlighting the book you are reading will not help you retain the information, you need to write it longhand in a notenook. Typing your notes will also not help you retain the information. There have been lots of studies that have proven the link between writing longhand and retaining information long term.
When you sit down in a quiet area with no distractions for your planned studying the first thing you should do is read over your notes from previous classes and study sessions to review. It will help you remember the info for the test and will get you into the mindset you need to be in for that specific class. Put your phone on silent, not just vibrate, and pick a place to study where you will not be interrupted, like the library, especially if you have a roommate or friends that are likely to stop by and interrupt you.
Even now, I practice time management in this way using the calendar in my phone. I put in my meetings and appointments and things that I do not have control over when they occur. Then I schedule around that an hour or two daily to write my reports and even schedule when I am going to make phone calls and reply to emails. I schedule my whole week on Sunday to make sure I have time to get everything done that is mandatory and if I don't have time to do something at its scheduled time, I reschedule it in my phone for later in the week to make sure it gets done.
One other thing I have always done in school was to have a separate notebook and a folder for each class that are the same color. So like a red notebook and red folder for math and a blue notebook and blue folder for English, etc. It makes organizing easier, you put everything in your class folder that you are given from that professor including the syllabus and all of your returned assignments and when you are studying you should review past assignments.
Also, use the syllabi for all of your classes and put all quizzes, tests and paper due dates in your calendar for the whole semester as soon as you get the syllabus.
When you sit down in a quiet area with no distractions for your planned studying the first thing you should do is read over your notes from previous classes and study sessions to review. It will help you remember the info for the test and will get you into the mindset you need to be in for that specific class. Put your phone on silent, not just vibrate, and pick a place to study where you will not be interrupted, like the library, especially if you have a roommate or friends that are likely to stop by and interrupt you.
Even now, I practice time management in this way using the calendar in my phone. I put in my meetings and appointments and things that I do not have control over when they occur. Then I schedule around that an hour or two daily to write my reports and even schedule when I am going to make phone calls and reply to emails. I schedule my whole week on Sunday to make sure I have time to get everything done that is mandatory and if I don't have time to do something at its scheduled time, I reschedule it in my phone for later in the week to make sure it gets done.
One other thing I have always done in school was to have a separate notebook and a folder for each class that are the same color. So like a red notebook and red folder for math and a blue notebook and blue folder for English, etc. It makes organizing easier, you put everything in your class folder that you are given from that professor including the syllabus and all of your returned assignments and when you are studying you should review past assignments.
Also, use the syllabi for all of your classes and put all quizzes, tests and paper due dates in your calendar for the whole semester as soon as you get the syllabus.
Updated
Isabella’s Answer
-Seek help when you need it - take advantage of surrounding resources!
-Create a schedule (keep track of what needs to get done and when)
-Set short term and long term goals
-Create a schedule (keep track of what needs to get done and when)
-Set short term and long term goals
Updated
Kimberly’s Answer
Hi Ahmad,
Just know that it is never too late to become a better student! I would say staying organized is one of the key steps to focusing on your studies. If you not only keep your notes organized (in order, color coded, neat) and you workspace (i.e. desk) nice and clean, this will help improve your focus and attention to your studies. I would also say that a good student is not afraid to ask questions or ask for help. If there is something you do not understand, reach out and get help then, do not wait. Also try and sign up for classes that you are interested in and areas you could potentially see useful to a future career. This will encourage you to want to learn and do better in school. It takes time to make improvements and adjustments, but just know there is always time do so and it is never too late.
Just know that it is never too late to become a better student! I would say staying organized is one of the key steps to focusing on your studies. If you not only keep your notes organized (in order, color coded, neat) and you workspace (i.e. desk) nice and clean, this will help improve your focus and attention to your studies. I would also say that a good student is not afraid to ask questions or ask for help. If there is something you do not understand, reach out and get help then, do not wait. Also try and sign up for classes that you are interested in and areas you could potentially see useful to a future career. This will encourage you to want to learn and do better in school. It takes time to make improvements and adjustments, but just know there is always time do so and it is never too late.
Updated
Regina’s Answer
This is a great question. First I would suggest you find out your learning style, for example: are you a Visual learner(like seeing pictures, graphics, remember faces ,etc.), Auditory(enjoy talking, music, listening activities, etc.), Kinesthetic(likes physical rewards, touch people when talking, will try new things), or a Combination of them. You can search for short tests on learning style and find this out easily. Once you have figured out what type of learner you are use it to help you learn and study. For instance, if you are an Auditory learner read your work out loud and summarize what you have read on tape. If you are a Visual learner take notes, make pictures, graphs, charts, and use flashcards to help with studying. If you are a Kinesthetic learner divide your work into short study sessions maybe 20 minutes set a timer then after the 20 minutes reward yourself with something you enjoy like listening to music, etc. Keep your desk clear of distractions.
Once you find the type of learner you are this will help tremendously with studying. In general, prepare your workspace and your mind for studying, set aside time to study, review what you went over in class daily, be creative and try different techniques to study(some I mentioned above). To be a good student show up to class, listen in class, ask questions, participate in class, complete your assignments, and block out distractions during class. I wish you all the best. School can be challenging at times, but if you apply some of the suggestions above and stick with it you will do great!
Once you find the type of learner you are this will help tremendously with studying. In general, prepare your workspace and your mind for studying, set aside time to study, review what you went over in class daily, be creative and try different techniques to study(some I mentioned above). To be a good student show up to class, listen in class, ask questions, participate in class, complete your assignments, and block out distractions during class. I wish you all the best. School can be challenging at times, but if you apply some of the suggestions above and stick with it you will do great!
Updated
Eugenia’s Answer
Make sure that you know why you are studying. People are normally not very good in doing something they do not see a purpose to. If you know exactly why you are studying, which purpose your studies let you achieve, and if it is indeed your purpose, not your parents' one or your girlfriends' one, you should have no trouble in motivating yourself for being a good student. If what you are studying feels like not what you would like to study, probably you should simply change the area of your studies. Or go to work in the respective field to see if you really like this profession. People who have already started a profession are normally much better in further studies because for them things they are learning is not an empty theory.
Updated
Simi’s Answer
1.Love what you're doing. When you choose a course in college, be sure that you really want it, so you'll not regret it in the end. ...
2.Be positive. ...
3.Have self-esteem. ...
4.Pick good friends in school. ...
5.Don't mind time, focus on the discussion. ...
6.Set your goals. ...
7.Do advance reading. ...
8.Be punctual and always show up.
2.Be positive. ...
3.Have self-esteem. ...
4.Pick good friends in school. ...
5.Don't mind time, focus on the discussion. ...
6.Set your goals. ...
7.Do advance reading. ...
8.Be punctual and always show up.
Updated
Nikki’s Answer
This is a great question because we will always be a "student" even if we are no longer in school. Learning continues in the workplace and in some cases you will be taking classes to enhance your skills. Training to be a good student now will serve you well in your career.
As mentioned in previous answers, knowing your learning style is very important. For me, it helped that I maintain some level of organization when I'm studying - having a schedule, setting goals for myself and keeping track of my progress.
It also helped to surround myself with fellow students who will challenge me in my learning. it's a good opportunity to learn how to work with other people and how to learn from other people's expertise.
Knowing where to find answers is also important. Leverage the resources your school provides such as access to good information databases, research sources, etc that can provide additional information to help you understand your study materials.
As mentioned in previous answers, knowing your learning style is very important. For me, it helped that I maintain some level of organization when I'm studying - having a schedule, setting goals for myself and keeping track of my progress.
It also helped to surround myself with fellow students who will challenge me in my learning. it's a good opportunity to learn how to work with other people and how to learn from other people's expertise.
Knowing where to find answers is also important. Leverage the resources your school provides such as access to good information databases, research sources, etc that can provide additional information to help you understand your study materials.
Updated
Riley’s Answer
Time management is key! At the beginning of each week, take a look at your schedules in all your classes and write down all the things you need to get done (I even estimate how long each task will take me so I can properly block out time for it). This way, you will never feel overwhelmed with the amount of studying or homework you have to do each day because you will be able to plan ahead and set aside time for it. This will make you a better student because you will be able to dedicate more time to your classes.
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Aicha’s Answer
Hi Ahmad!
- Set realistic goals for yourself
- It is ok to take breaks in between studying or doing homework; you can search tomato timer online and it will allow you to work for 25 minutes and you can choose to take a 5 or 10 minute break.
- Try not to procrastinate even though this can be hard.
- Don't try to finish every single assignment in one day, split it into chunks so you are not overwhelming or overworking yourself.
- Ask for help! Don't sit there and not understand what is going on!
- Turn your cell phone off and put it out of sight when you are studying!
- Set realistic goals for yourself
- It is ok to take breaks in between studying or doing homework; you can search tomato timer online and it will allow you to work for 25 minutes and you can choose to take a 5 or 10 minute break.
- Try not to procrastinate even though this can be hard.
- Don't try to finish every single assignment in one day, split it into chunks so you are not overwhelming or overworking yourself.
- Ask for help! Don't sit there and not understand what is going on!
- Turn your cell phone off and put it out of sight when you are studying!
Updated
Elizabeth’s Answer
Work on time management. Complete your most challenging assignments first. Never wait until the last minute to do your work. Take advantage of tutoring. Keep records of all your notes and polish your organization skills.
Updated
Genesis’s Answer
Hi Ahmad,
Great question! To be a better student, first I would reflect on what you believe your doing good at and is working for you, and what areas you need improvements on. When you've figured out your strengths and weaknesses, it can be much easier to help tackle and overcome your weaknesses. Now in my opinion a good student is someone who cares about their performance, their learning, their relationships with others, their communication, and someone who is good at time management. Getting to class on time is always a good first impression. Asking questions during and after class if something doesn't seem clear or you need further assistance on. Paying attention in class and contributing to class discussions. Organizing your notes in order to help with the assignments that need to be done, as well as pre-preparing for exams. Being attentive and a team player when the opportunity is available. Also being courteous, friendly, and empathetic to others. For me, these traits and characteristics will help mold anyone into a great, better student.
Hope this helps!
Good luck,
Genesis
Great question! To be a better student, first I would reflect on what you believe your doing good at and is working for you, and what areas you need improvements on. When you've figured out your strengths and weaknesses, it can be much easier to help tackle and overcome your weaknesses. Now in my opinion a good student is someone who cares about their performance, their learning, their relationships with others, their communication, and someone who is good at time management. Getting to class on time is always a good first impression. Asking questions during and after class if something doesn't seem clear or you need further assistance on. Paying attention in class and contributing to class discussions. Organizing your notes in order to help with the assignments that need to be done, as well as pre-preparing for exams. Being attentive and a team player when the opportunity is available. Also being courteous, friendly, and empathetic to others. For me, these traits and characteristics will help mold anyone into a great, better student.
Hope this helps!
Good luck,
Genesis
Updated
Joshua’s Answer
Scheduling and staying organized is very important. Free time is a good thing, but make sure you use it consciously and clearly schedule and separate your studies from your free time.
Begin studying for big exams much earlier than you'd expect, and staying on top of coursework will always make your life easier in the long run.
If you have a big project, take the time at the outset to break it up into smaller tasks that don't take more than an hour or two. Set yourself deadlines to complete each of these smaller tasks.
You have the same amount of work in the end whether you procrastinate or not so do your best not to fall into these tempting traps. I guarantee you'll have more success as a result!
Begin studying for big exams much earlier than you'd expect, and staying on top of coursework will always make your life easier in the long run.
If you have a big project, take the time at the outset to break it up into smaller tasks that don't take more than an hour or two. Set yourself deadlines to complete each of these smaller tasks.
You have the same amount of work in the end whether you procrastinate or not so do your best not to fall into these tempting traps. I guarantee you'll have more success as a result!
Updated
Christopher’s Answer
Hi Ahmad,
This is a great question. Being a "better" student is not a quick fix. It takes time because there are a lot of valuable skills that need to be built up in order to be a great student. First, there is no substitute for hard work. Putting in the time to really understand the task at hand will help you understand what is being asked and how to solve that issue. Hard work needs to be always there in order for you to be a better student.
Second, you should learn to critically think about and solve problems. If not on your own, do not hesitate to reach out to those who can help. To be able to understand a problem and learn how to approach will help you become a better student. Third, building effective habits and setting a routine will help you prioritize and ensure you are putting in the necessary time. If you keep striving to be better each day, you will be amazed at what you will achieve over time.
Hope some of these tips help for you and good luck on your journey!
This is a great question. Being a "better" student is not a quick fix. It takes time because there are a lot of valuable skills that need to be built up in order to be a great student. First, there is no substitute for hard work. Putting in the time to really understand the task at hand will help you understand what is being asked and how to solve that issue. Hard work needs to be always there in order for you to be a better student.
Second, you should learn to critically think about and solve problems. If not on your own, do not hesitate to reach out to those who can help. To be able to understand a problem and learn how to approach will help you become a better student. Third, building effective habits and setting a routine will help you prioritize and ensure you are putting in the necessary time. If you keep striving to be better each day, you will be amazed at what you will achieve over time.
Hope some of these tips help for you and good luck on your journey!
Updated
Aaliyah’s Answer
Being better at anything in life first starts with self-reflection. Ask yourself why? What are your goals? And how getting better will overall benefit you and others around you. Lots of great advice for others!
You're already on your way with posting this question. Now you just need to make an action plan and work toward your goals!
Best of luck.
You're already on your way with posting this question. Now you just need to make an action plan and work toward your goals!
Best of luck.
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
To be a better student, get in the habit of studying in smaller bursts rather than in large cram sessions. Find people who are willing to study with you and hold you accountable to your study goals as well. Also, if you want to go the extra mile, make your own learning goals and read up on topics on your own without a class dictating the direction of your studies. Study what you're interested in and develop your love of learning.
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
Hi Ahmad,
This is a powerful question and depends on the student. It also depends on your meaning of better. Are you comparing yourself to someone else or are you judging yourself on your grades? Whatever the meaning, make sure that you are only comparing yourself to yourself. Everyone has their own way of studying. For example, I am an avid note taker. I learned early on that if I wanted to remember something, I had to write it down in my own words. And only sometimes would I ever need those notes again. I had a friend who never took notes. Never. And they managed to remember everything. It was the way that they were wired. So know your strengths and what works for you. I would also echo a lot of the other messages that you have received already. When you don't understand something and you have tried and tried, ask someone else. Sometimes the only thing that you can do is ask for help. There is no harm in asking for help.
Gloria
This is a powerful question and depends on the student. It also depends on your meaning of better. Are you comparing yourself to someone else or are you judging yourself on your grades? Whatever the meaning, make sure that you are only comparing yourself to yourself. Everyone has their own way of studying. For example, I am an avid note taker. I learned early on that if I wanted to remember something, I had to write it down in my own words. And only sometimes would I ever need those notes again. I had a friend who never took notes. Never. And they managed to remember everything. It was the way that they were wired. So know your strengths and what works for you. I would also echo a lot of the other messages that you have received already. When you don't understand something and you have tried and tried, ask someone else. Sometimes the only thing that you can do is ask for help. There is no harm in asking for help.
Gloria
Updated
TLAURENTONI’s Answer
Love what you're doing!
At the point when you pick a course in school, be certain that you truly need it, so you'll not regret it!
Be positive!
Continuously be hopeful at school, you may experience conditions that would test your understanding!
Have confidence.
Try not to be bashful to stand up and talk before an enormous class.
Be certain!
At the point when you pick a course in school, be certain that you truly need it, so you'll not regret it!
Be positive!
Continuously be hopeful at school, you may experience conditions that would test your understanding!
Have confidence.
Try not to be bashful to stand up and talk before an enormous class.
Be certain!