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What would be some good studying tips for preparing for a test or exam?
I'm a college student that has tried many different ways to study for tests, but haven't been able to find one that sticks well.
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Paul Goetzinger MPA
Academic and Career Advisor | Freelance Writer | TRIO Program Director
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Paul’s Answer
I strongly advise against cramming, because it as an ineffective and physically draining approach to learning. You might try using the following analogies and principles:
The Marathon Analogy: Long study sessions and cramming is like "running a full marathon the day before an actual marathon competition". Basically, if a student is physically and mentally exhausted from last-minute overexertion, their actual exam performance will suffer significantly.
Mental Fatigue Limits: The brain, is much like the body, and it has a specific endurance limit. It can only process new information effectively for about 20 minutes before fatigue sets in. So, study for 20 minute intervals, and then take a small break to refresh the mind.
Declining Returns: When students try to cram for long, uninterrupted stretches (such as an hour), they typically only remember the first third of what they read. Once the brain is fatigued, it stops processing new information entirely, making the remaining time spent "studying" wasted effort. If you want to test this concept, try reading a book for an hour. You will find that you only remembered the first one third of what you read. The rest was not processed because your brain got fatigued and stopped processing the information you read.
Light Review Alternative: Instead of cramming, I recommend performing only light reviews the day before an exam to alleviate fatigue and ensure that the student is at "peak performance" on the day of the test.
Success through Preparation: I can also cite the John Wooden maxim that "failing to prepare is preparing to fail," which means that that organized, interval-based schedules are the only reliable way to achieve high results.
The Marathon Analogy: Long study sessions and cramming is like "running a full marathon the day before an actual marathon competition". Basically, if a student is physically and mentally exhausted from last-minute overexertion, their actual exam performance will suffer significantly.
Mental Fatigue Limits: The brain, is much like the body, and it has a specific endurance limit. It can only process new information effectively for about 20 minutes before fatigue sets in. So, study for 20 minute intervals, and then take a small break to refresh the mind.
Declining Returns: When students try to cram for long, uninterrupted stretches (such as an hour), they typically only remember the first third of what they read. Once the brain is fatigued, it stops processing new information entirely, making the remaining time spent "studying" wasted effort. If you want to test this concept, try reading a book for an hour. You will find that you only remembered the first one third of what you read. The rest was not processed because your brain got fatigued and stopped processing the information you read.
Light Review Alternative: Instead of cramming, I recommend performing only light reviews the day before an exam to alleviate fatigue and ensure that the student is at "peak performance" on the day of the test.
Success through Preparation: I can also cite the John Wooden maxim that "failing to prepare is preparing to fail," which means that that organized, interval-based schedules are the only reliable way to achieve high results.
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Everyone gets ready for a test in their own way. Set up a study area that suits your learning style. Use tools like index cards, paper, or a notes app on your computer to stay organized. Repeat what you learn. Make a quiz or an outline to focus on the main ideas. Remember to take breaks.
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Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Samuel,
Studying for a test can be daunting but if you break it down, it’s doable!
- For questions you don’t know the answer to, go back and review them at least once.
- If you are a visual learner, try flash cards or use a study buddy who can review flash cards with you.
- Study for 20 minutes, then rest for 10. Think of the break as a reward for your focus.
- Figure out your best study time. Whether it's night or morning, use your natural rhythm to your benefit.
Hope these tips help!
Studying for a test can be daunting but if you break it down, it’s doable!
- For questions you don’t know the answer to, go back and review them at least once.
- If you are a visual learner, try flash cards or use a study buddy who can review flash cards with you.
- Study for 20 minutes, then rest for 10. Think of the break as a reward for your focus.
- Figure out your best study time. Whether it's night or morning, use your natural rhythm to your benefit.
Hope these tips help!
Updated
Kate’s Answer
Tips:
1. Instead of re-reading notes, quiz yourself regularly.
2. If you can explain a concept clearly to a friend or even to youself out loud, you really understand it.
3. Practice old exams or sample questions under timed conditions.
1. Instead of re-reading notes, quiz yourself regularly.
2. If you can explain a concept clearly to a friend or even to youself out loud, you really understand it.
3. Practice old exams or sample questions under timed conditions.