Heavy Reading Tips?

[hallolizzie]

So I have no problems studying and learning the material, but right now my A&P II teacher doesn't do any slides or anything, and basically everything in the book is free game for the test. Well, sometimes these chapters are 60 pages long and I have a HORRIBLE attention span, and I'm really much more of an auditory learner. I have ADD and I am on medication but it's not a miracle drug, and it can only help so much and for so long. I know i will have a lot of reading in my future with nursing school too, so does anyone have any tips on getting through heavy reading courses? Especially when just one chapter is 60 pages and a unit usually covers 3-4 chapters?

[Shawn91111]

Highlight, hand write the notes. Do end of the chapter reviews and mastering. Also the AP book is pretty standard so type in the chapter # and the chapter name for Quizlet's flashcards, chances are a bunch have already made them. Also take frequent breaks. I can only study for 30 min straight before I zone out or get distracted. So I take a 5 min break every 30 min or so. Also YouTube videos help, especially Armando Hasudungan, his YouTube page is great for visual as he draws it all out.

[Wiggly Litchi]

I study in short bursts and then study like I am preparing to teach someone the material I'm covering. (Essentially I am, because I already tutor A&P1, will be eligible to tutor A&P2 next semester !)

For A&P 1&2 - diagram as you go if you're a visual learner; sometimes reading is enough, but other folks like to 'see' what they are reading about. Make the material your own and it'll make it stick.

I doodled little step-by-step comics for more complicated step-by-step concepts such as action potentials, 1st messenger/2nd messenger systems, circulation, and even the endocrine system. Drawing things out and focusing on each step helps to break it down so you're not swamped with so much in a short amount of time.

Come up with mnemonics! As my Microbiology professor told us on day one: "Make up mnemonics. Make them up for everything, but you've got to make them dirty and that way you'll actually remember it!" (She was so very, very right haha)

In short - find out what kind of learner you are; break material down into small chunks, take small breaks often (especially when you feel your mind wandering), and just keep chipping away at it. It will stick eventually!