The Jello Effect

Do you know how to make jello?  Think a moment, and then read below:

1. Put powder from the box into a bowl.

2. Add required amount of boiling water.

3. Add required amount of cold water.

4. Put in refrigerator for a few hours for the jello to set and become solid.

You might be wondering why the recipe for jello is appropriate for a study strategies blog!  The answer is in step #4 – just like jello, information needs time to settle into your long-term memory and “set” or consolidate. 

Here are some ideas:

* Take a few minutes to review what you have read after finishing a textbook assignment.

* Review your lecture notes as soon as possible after class and all your notes for the next exam at least once a week.

* Take a week to prepare for an exam – not just the night before!

* Consider adding a 20 minute daily review of information that is difficult or critical.

These are simple things to add to your study routine, but they will make a big difference!

First Semester Success: Study Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is now available at wordassociation.com, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.