A joy for some and an unbearable chore for others, studying is something many of us can’t avoid. However, no matter your approach to the task, there are so many ways to make studying more enjoyable. Here are a few that you might consider.
- Listen to Music.
Listening to music while studying is a scientifically proven way to help you focus on and remember information. Of all the study-friendly musical genres, classical seems to be a popular choice, though the possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting your studying playlist. However, if you find yourself easily distracted, try to choose sounds that don’t heavily draw focus away from your work.
2. Form or Find a Study Group.
Let’s say you miss a day of class, and you need someone to update you on the current lesson. This is where a study group comes in handy; you’ll have a backup plan and supportive peers to help you succeed. Additionally, studying in a group setting can be fun; you’ll often learn helpful — and sometimes hilarious — ways to memorize your notes, all while enjoying the company of other students. Though, be sure that your study group will hold you accountable and push you academically. Trust me, this will save you a lot of stress come test day.
3. Review your Notes Often.
Make it a habit to look over your notes every day. This will help prevent cramming and improve your memorization of coursework. Though sometimes difficult to do, you’ll thank yourself once exam season comes around.
4. Don’t Cram.
This one is for my procrastinators. While tempting, cramming the night before a test or presentation doesn’t seem to work for most people; studies have even shown that a good night’s sleep before an important event improves the brain’s ability to perform. So, if you think that cramming is a good idea, you may want to think again.
Of course, no two students are alike, so finding a study style that works for you can take time. But, as long as make an honest effort, you’ll quickly find that studying isn’t as horrible as it seems.