Figure Out Your Best Study Style
By Bruce Douglas, Management, Class of 2010
Everyone needs something different when it comes to studying. Despite what we are sometimes led to believe, not everyone studies well in the library for eight hours at a time! There is a chance that you didn't even study before coming to college, meaning you have no study style at all yet! Your study style is unique to you, so think about these questions:
Can you study anywhere?
Just because there's a desk in your room, it doesn't mean you'll study effectively there. Your room is often where you socialize, so you may find yourself distracted by that tendency. If this applies to you, find a place that fits your study style. Build the mindset that this place is a study place, and that's all you do there.
What is your noise tolerance?
Believe it or not, everyone does not study while listening to music. You may need complete silence when you work. The library is a great place for this, so is Nord or Thwing later on in the day. If moderate noise helps, Wade is great. If you need things going on around you, try Starbucks. Also, if you do listen to music, make sure it is familiar music that won't distract you.
Can you work with other people?
Some people need help from others, which is fine. Take notice of yourself when you're studying with people. Do you find yourself talking to them only about the material, or are you sidetracked? If you are a talker, you may need to be isolated when you study.
What time is best for you?
Late night studying is not effective for everyone. Some people are actually morning people and do their best work then. Others do their best work in the afternoon when they're already in the class mindset. And indeed, some actually do their best work at 3 a.m., but make sure you pay attention to when you are most effective.
Find a system that works and stick to it. It may take time, even a full year before you perfect it, but it will come.
Download the PDF: Figure Out Your Best Study Style