It's week four of semester, and things are starting to heat up. Including my body, because I had a fever of like 40 degrees two nights ago. I've been out of action for a few days, and now I feel a little behind at uni. Now's the time for me to employ some of my best study strategies, and I thought I'd share them with you.
Disclaimer: everyone is different and these might not work for you.
1. Make a list
Write down everything you need to do. Seeing it all laid out can help you allocate time for study and prioritise your time too. Crossing things off your list is also a great way to motivate yourself by feeling accomplished.
2. Set small goals you can accomplish
Break your assignments and study into smaller sections or tasks which you can then cross off your to-do list. Sometimes an assignment (or three weeks of lectures you need to catch up on) can seem like an impossible task, so this is a good way to stay motivated.
3. Get it done
If breaking your tasks into smaller pieces doesn't work for you, set aside a block of time for your work and sit down and do it. It tends to be easier to cut down words then expand on them, so write down all your ideas and don't worry about going over word count at first. Once your time is up, take a break for a few hours then come back to edit your work. Spending that time away can help clear your head and give you fresh eyes to look at your work with.
4. Reward yourself
Attach a reward to accomplishing part of your work. It's best to start early in the day so you have time for these rewards. Rewards can be as small as opening a new packet of Easter eggs or as large as a whole day of Netflix bingeing.
5. Take a break
While it's important to catch up on your study and get your assignments done, it's also important to take a break. Make sure to take time for yourself so you don't burn yourself out.
6. Listen to music that puts you in the zone
Some people find it easier to write their assignments when they can tune out background noise with music. There are plenty of decent study playlists on Spotify, with lots of different options for different music tastes. Keep in mind though, if you're trying to remember content for an exam, music might not be the way to go.
7. Get out of the house
For some people it's easier to focus when they're out of the house. Try going to the library or 24 hour lab at uni, the state library, or to the park.
8. Move your due date forward a week, then use that extra week to edit
One way to avoid the stress of leaving your assignment to the night before is to tell yourself it's due earlier than it is. Trust me. Having that extra week will mean you have more time to edit your work.
9. Exercise
It's a commonly known fact that regular exercise helps release endorphins and increase brain function. So basically, you'll feel better and be more productive.
10. Eat well and drink plenty of water
It's an obvious one, but one of the best things you can to do as a student is stay healthy. Eating a balanced diet and drinking plenty of water will help you focus and remember things.
xo Dominique