Studying by yourself can be tiring and boring. Most of the times it can feel like torture. But, if you stay focused you can get a lot done in very little time!
Today we share some tips for a more efficient self-study time:
Set out the time and space
Avoid distractions
Stay organized
Test yourself regularly
Use educational games and apps
Let's take a look!
Tip #1 - Set out the time and space
The number one rule is time and space! Routine might sound boring, but when it comes to studying is the best solution. Knowing that it's time to study allows you to focus and prepare. Finding the right time to study can be tricky, but planning your time carefully will help you get more things done.
It's also very important to find a place free from distractions that can help you stay focused. It should be a place you like, where you feel relaxed and comfortable.
If you're studying at home, separate a small space for your study zone. It doesn't matter whether it's the dining table or your bedroom desk. However, avoid studying on your bed, it's way to easy to slide into a nap!
Don't forget to keep your study zone tidy, so you don't waste time cleaning up and can focus on your studying!
Tip #2 - Avoid distractions
This is probably one of the hardest things to do! How can you stay focused when there are so many interesting things going on around you?
Well, you must persevere! Avoid all mobile devices, smartphones, games. It's just too tempting! You can also use headphones and music to cut down the noise.
If you're studying at home, ask your family to help you by keeping distractions to a minimum. Again, yes, it's very important: make sure you keep your study space clean and well-organized, it'll save you a lot of trouble.
You can also stay on track by keeping a to-do list. You don't want to let your brain wonder deciding what to do next. More on that below!
Tip #3 - Stay organized
Talking about planning and organization!
Make sure you keep a close track of your time and your study goals. Don't go about it randomly. Plan in advance and then push on! Keep a to-do list and set short-term, achievable goals for yourself. It will help a lot with motivation as well!
First, try to break big projects into smaller ones. Do you have a big test coming soon? A lot of units to study? Don't try to tackle all at once. Write every step down and gradually tick it off the list. It will make everything easy.
Second, make a plan for the week and set a weekly goal. Maybe you have a target number of words to memorize, or a certain score to get on a test worksheet? Write it down and focus most of your to-do list points on that. It'll keep you moving on the right direction.
Tip #4 - Test yourself regularly
This is very important! How do you know you've set the right goals for yourself? Or how can you tell you have achieved your goals? You need to test yourself!
Most workbooks have a good collection of self-assessment worksheets, but you don't need to rely solely on that. You can use old exercises or your own study notes. Involving a friend is also a great idea! You can test each other or share self-assessment sheets. A little healthy competition always help with motivation and focus.
Another good idea is to keep track of your progress. Have your self-assessment tests scores improved over time? Can you identify the parts that are more difficult to you? Don't waste your time with the parts you are already familiar with. Make the best of your time and focus on that which needs more practice!
Tip #5 - Use educational games and apps
Talking about testing yourself and studying with friends! There are lots of great fun educational apps out there that can help you enjoy your studying time even more.
Kahoot and Quizzlet are great to test yourself and your friends in any subject you choose. You can make your own quizzes or use one already made. With a vast community of players and educators, those are a great option to try.
Finding the right might take some time, but it will prove useful in the end. It does take a bit of experimenting as well. Also, you don't want to overdo it with the screen time. It all goes back to planning and time management! If you can get those in check, then you're good to go.
And...
Don’t Forget to reward yourself!
You have studied hard and achieved your goals. Don't forget to give yourself a little pat on the shoulder and reward yourself!
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