Study and Note-taking Tips
How to Study
Here are some tips to help with studying.Try to review a little bit each day leading up to the evaluation; waiting until the night before is often ineffective and stressful, and leads to poor study habits.
Begin reviewing at least one week before an evaluation.
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set up a quiet and appropriate study space and avoid distractions
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set a time limit for each subject and fully commit to studying the entire time, then take a break!
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reread handouts and review class notes
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write down important/main ideas
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study with friends or a parent/guardian
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make cue cards for key vocabulary or ideas
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review any assignments and homework questions and answers
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use drawings and diagrams to help with comprehension
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make a game (ex. jeopardy)
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teach the information to friends of a parent/guardian
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watch videos and use online sources of relevant information to increase understanding
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repetition, repetition, repetition!
While studying, if you encounter any difficulties or information that you do not understand, make a note of it or mark it with a star and go speak with your teacher for extra help. Your teachers will always make the time to help you, but you need to ask!
How to Take Notes
Here are some tips to help you take notes. Good work habits include listening attentively and taking notes of key ideas while reading. Remember that it is often necessary to read a text several times in order to fully understand it.
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pay attention to titles and subtitles - they are often related to the main idea
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read each section individually
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use a highlighter to highlight important details
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jot down key ideas and words/vocabulary; use a dictionary for unknown words
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paraphrase important information for your notes; notes should be in your own words
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don't forget to read the diagrams and look at the images on the page; is there any important information here?
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use symbols (*!) to mark important details
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get into the five-minute technique of reviewing your notes right after class. At this time you can change, organize, add, delete, summarize, or clarify misunderstandings
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reread your notes to make sure you've included all the necessary information
Rereading your class notes at home is a good way of reviewing and consolidating information.
