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 Learn
to take great notes in class. This is the first important step!
Don't try to write down every word that the teacher says, though.
Listen for big ideas and write down key words. Ask your teacher
to repeat something you don't understand. Chances are that someone
in your class didn't get it either. (Hey, it's easier than wondering
if you got the right information as you study that night!)
 If
you have a hard time writing notes, ask if you can bring a small
battery-operated tape recorder on the day of the review.
 Select
a special time to study. Review notes for the test each day at this
time.
Create
a special study nook or corner. Keep all your supplies there. Your
mind will automatically switch to "study mode" if you use the same
place every day! Make sure it is a quiet place without lots of things
around to distract you. Oh, and don't forget good lighting.
Having
three or four shorter study times a week is more effective than
one long study period. Why? Repeating the material is the key to
building your memory.
Study
when you are awake! Do you come alive at night or are you a bright-eyed,
cheerful morning person? Pick a study time when you are less likely
to feel tired.
Sometimes
it helps to study with a partner or a small group. You can work
as a group to think of ways to learn the material easier or quiz
one another.
Start
working on an assignment or project as soon as it is announced.
Set
a day or a time when you want to finish part of an assignment. You
can make goals like this: "I will finish the math assignment by
____ o'clock today and reward myself with a bike ride when I'm done."
OR "I will write the first part of the report on Tuesday, finish
the 2nd part Wednesday and do the poster on Thursday."
Study
the "yuckiest stuff" first! Get the hard part over to avoid spending
too much time on the easy stuff.
Take
short breaks to stay refreshed. Tell yourself something like, "I'll
review Chapter One, then grab a cold slice of pizza before starting
on the vocabulary words."
If
you don't get enough sleep, you are less able to concentrate. Try
to get at least 8-9 hours of sleep each night.
Have
a great attitude about what you are learning, because it makes remembering
easier!
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