Study Strategies: Quick Lists

LEARNING AND STUDY STRATEGIES

Here is a quick list of strategies that you might already use or might choose to use in the future. You can do some of these on your own and others require an accommodation. They are listed by learning area. 

WRITING

  • Visit the tutors to get help with writing essays and other writing assignments
  • Type on a computer using a word processing program with spell check
  • Compile and use an editing checklist
  • Use notetaking software like Otter.ai for capturing information from lectures
  • Use a Smart Pen or laptop for lectures
  • Use a note taker for lectures
  • Use tutorials for help with notes and essays
  • Use a Franklin Speller or other spell checking device
  • Have a friend or tutor proofread what you wrote
  • Double-check when copying; read aloud what you wrote
  • Use prewriting techniques: clustering, audio-recording, outlining, etc.
  • Use speech-to-text software where you talk and the computer types what you said 

 

READING

  • Plan your schedule to allow more time for reading
  • Use the Immersive Reader in CANVAS or Kurzweil, Claro or other screen reader where the computer reads electronic text to you
  • Use audiobooks (see learningally.org)
  • Interact with the text:
    • Take notes as you read
    • Highlight important passages
    • Color-code your notes
    • Draw diagrams/pictures
    • Write down questions
  • Use tutoring
  • Form a study group
  • Take reading classes
  • Take frequent breaks while reading
  • Read the same textbook at the same time of day
  • Tell someone what you just read
  • Increase your vocabulary (keep a list, take a class, read for pleasure)

 

MATH

  • Go to tutoring
  • Use online learning options (Khan Academy, Purple Math) 
  • Use a calculator or multiplication table 
  • Compile and use a formula check sheet
  • Use graph paper (large-block graph paper can be helpful) 
  • Analyze errors on returned tests and homework
  • Get counseling for math anxiety 
  • Talk through problems 
  • List problem-solving steps/procedures
  • Try new approaches/different ways of looking at the problem 
  • Relate abstract concepts to concrete examples
  • Use computer software to practice basic math/algebra
  • Practice basic math facts at the same time daily
  • Post basic math facts on mirrors, refrigerator, etc.
  • Set aside extra time for homework/study
  • Join a study group

 

LECTURES

  • Read the textbook before the lecture so you are familiar with the concepts and vocabulary
  • Look at the lecture topic or textbook beforehand and write down questions
  • Ask questions of the instructor as they lecture
  • Immediately after the lecture, take time to think about what you learned
  • Within a day of the lecture, go over your notes 
  • Options for taking lecture notes
    • Use notetaking software like Otter.ai to capture notes
    • Use a Smart Pen
    • Use a student note taker 
    • Take notes yourself with a laptop
    • Tape-record lectures
    • Ask the instructor to slow down or repeat information
    • Ask the instructor to write on the board
    • Ask the instructor for a copy of their slides or notes

 

ORGANIZATIONAL SKILLS 

  • Use calendars or planners, either paper or electronic
  • Set reminders on your calendar, phone, or post in a place you see every day 
  • Schedule time for projects, assignments, studying, having fun
  • Set up a study area; remove distractions
  • Keep sections in a binder for each class or project, or use separate binders for each class
  • Keep a to-do list or a list of next tasks to do for each class 
  • Set semester goals and post them where you can see them 
  • Break larger projects into smaller steps; schedule time for each step
  • Take a study skills class
  • Stick to your schedule, then reward yourself when you do
  • Study each subject at the same time of day

 

MEMORY, TEST PREPARATION, STUDY SKILLS

  • Frequent rehearsal, repetition, and review of information
  • Use catchwords, acronyms, silly sentences
  • Use 3x5 cards for vocabulary, spelling, model questions, facts, key concepts
  • Use multisensory techniques: read/speak, listen/write, listen/speak, etc.
  • Recite and/or write material; test and retest yourself
  • Copy/retype notes, reorganizing so they make the most sense
  • Memorize in small chunks; review previous chunks; spread memorizing over many sessions
  • Study a subject at the same time of day
  • Quickly review what you studied before sleeping
  • Post information on refrigerator, mirrors, bedside table
  • Relate new information to previous knowledge
  • Use tutoring 
  • Study with a group; explain the information to someone in your own words; listen to someone explain it to you

 

TEST TAKING

  • Write down formulas, dates, facts, key information as soon as test begins (use scratch paper or write in pencil on the side of the test and erase later) 
  • If other important information comes to mind that you don't want to forget, write that down and move on 
  • Use relaxation techniques to calm your mind.  Repeat affirmations to encourage yourself and keep positive thoughts in your head 
  • Ask for clarification of instructions, if necessary
  • Ask for oral directions/instructions
  • Use a bookmark/piece of paper to track while reading the test or when marking Scantrons
  • Bring a watch; place it next to the test so you don’t have to look at the clock
  • Learn and use strategies for choosing answers on multiple-choice tests
  • If you get stuck and are limited for time, then circle that answer and return to it later. Another question may trigger your memory and help you answer it.
  • Leave a little time to review your answers and complete any skipped questions