Studying tips??

[AllieRat]

Classes start Monday, we had an all day orientation last Friday and I'm getting SO nervous. They had us all stand up and commented that we should be proud to be there since it had been a very competitive year. SO I want to be the best I can be and would like to know any tips for studying and retaining read information. I have a hard time keeping myself focused and find my mind wandering after a few pages.

Also since my Prof. does not allow the tape recording of lectures any note taking strategies?

Thanks!!

[RosesrReder, BSN, MSN, RN]

If you plan to keep your books, I suggest you highlight whatever comes out of the instructors mouth in a color and whatever you feel important in another color.

Transpose these highlights to your own notes and study from there. Good luck.

[stressgal, RN]

Everyone learns differently. What works for me is a combination of tactics. I do record lectures (when permitted by the instructor) but this is only for my own comfort. I only listen to them if I feel I missed something in class. If it is memorization, I create flash cards. I seldom take notes while reading material, but this works for some. Really focus on materials in boxes throughout the chapters. I find that it is good to at least familiarize myself with the material prior to lecture. And finally I use a study group to reinforce what I have learned in class and independently.

Good luck and happy studying!

[txkat]

I have found outlining the chapter to be very helpful. Yes, it is time consuming, but I am able to really retain the information when I do this, and during the process I create a great study guide. I carry my outlines with me, so any time I have a spare moment I can study. You'd be surprised at the number of study opportunities you'll have if you do this. If you highlight text during the lecture you will have an idea what should be included in your outline.

Most text books have companion websites with quizzes, flash cards, and other study aids--I frequently utilize these. If I am not clear on a certain concept or just want to gain better understanding, I look it up on the internet or in another text book. I also seek out good internet resources for a particular class. I have found some really useful internet sites created by instructors teaching the subject I am taking at various other colleges.

For some, reading their notes out loud is helpful, because they are verbalizing and hearing the words. It just depends on what works for you and how you best absorb information. I think the more parts of your brain you can engage, the better. Using a variety of methods works best for most people. Best of luck to you.

:)

[JenMarie82]

I make flashcards for everything I possibly can... then I can study anywhere and anytime, even if it's just a few minutes while waiting with my son at the doctor's office or in line at the grocery store. Don't know if you're married, but I also let my husband drive pretty much everywhere and then I can study in the car. Good luck finding what works best for you!!