Getting the Most Out of Studying...Part Two

You may be surprised to learn that a general guideline for how much time you should be putting in studying and doing homework per week is two hours for every hour of class time (does not apply to labs). Make your study plans both realistic and specific.  Instead of saying, “I’ll study math,” plan to re-write your notes from that day’s class and do the odd-numbered problems at the end of chapter seven. Try listening to music without lyrics – it may improve your concentration.  When trying to memorize information, use as many senses as possible.  For example, if you write it down and say it out loud at the same time, you are simultaneously using your visual, auditory, and kinesthetic senses.  Acronyms can also help with memorization.  The example used in “How to Get Good Grades in College” is HOMES to help remember the Great Lakes (Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior).  Or you may prefer using the first letters of the words you want to remember to make up a silly sentence.  Another example from “HTGGGIC”: My grandmother’s lamas ruined my valuable new carpet” can be used to help you remember the parts of a cell.