5 strategies to consider adding to your study routine

Do you often find yourself browsing for videos that can simplify concepts from one of your lectures? Are highlighters a permanent fixture in your hand when preparing for exams?

Often, classroom instruction doesn’t match your particular learning preference (whether auditory, visual or hands-on), which can lead to miscomprehension or lack of interest in a specific subject area—especially when studying.

To discover strategies you can use to enhance the effectiveness of your study sessions as finals at Case Western Reserve approach, The Daily spoke with James Eller, interim co-director of student advancement and academic resources in the university’s Office of Student Success.

As you continue preparing for your upcoming finals, consider adding some of the following strategies in your study routine.

1. Find the most effective place for you to study.

From Kelvin Smith Library to Nord Hall, Case Western Reserve University’s unique campus offers many locations for you to study—but creating a productive environment is crucial. If you are easily distracted by noise, avoid study spots with crowds of people, such as Tinkham Veale University Center’s main lobby.

2. Incorporate the use of visuals.

If you prefer to engage in learning visually, incorporate images—whether through flashcards, mind maps, posters or diagrams—in your study activities. You can also use color coding to help recall key terms, concepts and other classroom materials.

3. Revisit recorded learning materials.

If you have a lecture capture system, such as Echo360, or other recording software, relisten to past lectures to better understand and engage with notes you can hear. Or, you can watch YouTube videos and listen to podcasts on specific topics for better subject comprehension.

4. Apply course material to real-life scenarios.

If you learn best through hands-on interaction, applying real-life scenarios can help facilitate your study process through role-playing, creating models, conducting lab experiments, or turning your study guide into a game, such as Jeopardy or trivia.

5. Diversify your study methods.

Avoid boredom when studying by changing your study strategies occasionally—whether changing your scenery, working in study groups, or taking intentional, periodic breaks. Adding excitement to the way you study helps prevent monotony and allows you to stay motivated and productive.

To discover more helpful study tips and academic resources, visit the Office of Student Success website.