I tried to make this short but unfortunately that didn't work out (TLDR at the bottom.) I am returning to my BSN program after 2 years off-- I completed my first semester (fundamentals, health assessment, pathophys, and nursing research) with a decent enough GPA (>3.0). I had to withdraw my second semester due to some health issues and I'm finally going back this fall. Anyway, I have a tried and true method for studying, except I remember I would run out of time to complete the whole process before an exam. Let me explain. My process is thus:
1. Skim assigned chapters before class
2. Print out powerpoint slides and take notes on them in class
3. While re-listening to the lecture, combine the powerpoint, my class notes, and any pertinent info from the lecture that I caught while re-listening
4. Make flash cards
5. Practice questions
6. Make a study guide
7. More practice questions
Often I would just barely finish the note re-writing, possibly run through my flash cards once, and make a study guide before each exam. I remember it would take me hours upon hours to do step 3-- I'm talking 8hrs for a 3hr lecture was typical. This is the process I also used for A&P, microbio, etc before nursing school.
I'm reviewing the content from my first semester to prep for the fall when I return. I'll be taking med surg and pharm. I'd rather try and hone a more effective study system now, rather than while I'm in the midst of classes again.
Do other people have a similar process or am I just a weirdo? Any suggestions? Critiques?
TLDR; I spend hours re-writing my notes from lectures and am not always able to do other studying (flash cards, practice q's, etc.) prior to exams. I'm worried that I'm wasting time on re-writing notes when I could develop a more effective method. Help!
