One major study strategy is to review your notes as soon as possible after each lecture class. However, when I say this to my students, I really mean two things - REVIEW and then LEARN. These are two different things and both are necessary.
When you REVIEW your notes you should read them and do the following:
* Make spelling corrections.
* Add words as needed to make clearer.
* Identify any questions you have.
* Identify areas where you might need more background knowledge to completely understand.
* Identify vocabulary words you need to know.
* Consider highlighting the main topics so you can clearly see the organization.
* Remember that you will possibly be using these notes several weeks from now to study for a mid-term or final exam, so be sure they are clear enough that you will understand what you mean at a much later date.
* If your notes are not well organized or clear, consider rewriting.
When you LEARN the information you can do the following:
* Use recitation - read a section of notes, restate in your own words from memory and then check yourself. If you are successful move on, if not, repeat.
* Put your notes into a study guide format (chart, concept map, study cards, time line, etc.).
* Make a practice test and take the next day.
* Predict exam questions and answer - in writing if it will be an essay exam.
* Form a study group and teach or quiz each other.
* Combine your lecture notes with information from the textbook if applicable.
Both steps and necessary for long-term retention. Remember that learning takes time and effort, so keep current.
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First Semester Success: Learning Strategies and Motivation for Your First Semester (or Any Semester) of College, by Dr. Arden B. Hamer, is available at wordassociation.com, amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.
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