Study tips for students

                                Study tips for students

Studying doesn’t have to be as tedious of a task as you may think. Getting into the right habits can make all the difference between a dreadful chore and an enjoyable, helpful tool for success. Any student—whether you attend classes online or at a traditional school—can avoid cramming for tests and pulling all-nighters with these study tips:

1. Have a Designated Study Space

Staying focused when you’re at home is sometimes easier said than done. Distractions can challenge your focus, especially if you’re in a setting with a lot of noise—like a television or people who aren’t also studying.
Find somewhere that you’re comfortable and free from disturbances. Some options could be the:

• Library
• Coffee Shop
• Park
• Your Backyard

You could even create a nook area in your bedroom that’s specifically for studying—just make sure all possible distractions are out of sight and out of mind. It will also be helpful to avoid lying down on a bed or couch. You’ll focus better while sitting straight up in your seat.

2. Put the Phone Away

Random dings, buzzes and tweets from your cell phone can derail your concentration, especially since they are hard to ignore. Make sure your cell phone is off, on “do not disturb” or in another room so you can fully concentrate on your study materials.

3. Fuel Your Mind

You’ll be more alert and motivated if your stomach isn’t empty! Make sure you eat a good meal before you dive into the books or snack while you study so you can avoid tummy grumbles, headaches and a lack of focus that hunger may cause. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water so you stay hydrated and alert.

4. Stay Organized

Keeping track of your time for study sessions and lesson completions will help you stay on top of your courses. You can use apps on your computer or phone—like iCalendar or Wunderlist—or pick up a planner that you can customize to include your to-do lists and coursework. Making lists every day will help you come up with a plan and stick with it!
In competency-based schools like VLACS, there aren’t necessarily hard deadlines you’ll need to follow. However, to help you keep track of your responsibilities, you can create your own deadlines and log them in your apps or planner.

9. Quiz Yourself

Testing yourself to see how well you know the material will help you find your weak spots so you can strengthen those areas sooner. You can do this by asking your teacher for practice tests, or creating your own! Some textbooks will also include sample tests at the back of the book.

10. Identify How You Learn Best

Some students learn best by creating flash cards, other students have an easier time studying by re-writing their notes several times. When you find the best study technique that’s right for you, make sure you stick with it.
The setting and study strategies you choose are completely up to you! Just find somewhere that helps you get in the right flow to accomplish your study goals and you’ll be on the right track towards succeeding in your classes.
Remember: if there are materials that you’re not understanding, no matter how much you study, ask your instructor for additional help. They want you to succeed!
VLACS specializes in a personalized approach to learning. Feel free to contact us with any questions you have about tailoring your learning experience so you can find success in your study habits.