Find your method

[SoCaltransplant]

The best way to learn is whatever works for you. Some people like reading the book and can easily digest that information and be perfectly fine. I am a visual learner so I have found watching videos or playing interactive games will make the information stick better with me.

Also be sure to take breaks so your brain doesn't overload. This is a lot of information and you want to take time to actually learn it not just regurgitate the information back.

[TheDudeWithTheBigDog, ADN, RN]

And DO NOT go in following someone else's study schedule. That whole "rule" of study for 2 hours per 1 hour of class time, forget you've ever heard that. Study as much as YOU need to study. It doesn't matter whether you've been studying for 20 minutes or 40 hours, those lab values have the same exact meaning. Study to learn, and review to maintain. Plan your time around what you need to accomplish that. And take a night off, go out and have some drinks with your friends. Reward yourself for all the hard work. It helps keep you focused.

[seashellmichelle, CNA]

I've found studying for 30 mins and then taking 40 or so mins as a break and repeating that a few times works for me. I think a lot of people just cram everything and forget how important it is to take breaks. The longer you study the less you will retain, at least from what I see.

In terms of study methods, I do a few different things. I first read the unit I need to study, then I write out all the key terms, lastly, I read these things aloud, almost like teaching an imaginary class. When I do this part I try to put things in my own words the best I can.

I've found this to be the best routine for me. So far I've been maintaining the best grades I've had by implementing different study methods plus breaks.