Study Methods
There are many different study methods available to assist a student in learning material. No one method is better than another; the goal is to find a method that works for you. Here are some popular study methods:
SQ3R
S urvey- previewing- when reading an assignment read the introductory paragraphs, boldfaced type and summary paragraphs. If not available, read topic sentences. If review or study questions are included, read them.
Q uestion- What will be the important information contained in the assignment? (Hint: turn topic sentence into questions).
3R - Read : for ideas, answer questions. Recite : answer the questions without looking at notes. Review : grasp information, do not look at notes.
PQRST
P review- (same as above)
Q uestion- (same as above)
R ead- (same as above)
S tate- answer questions/find out what was neglected
T est- review knowledge and ask yourself questions
4S=M (Four Steps Equals Mastery)
· Preliminary Survey-see previews- relate old and new assignments
· Read the assignment- don't read word for word.
· Quick Review
· Summarize the assignment- write (time permitting) a summary of the assignment containing all-important information.
How to Make the Most of Study Methods
• Use your judgment when picking a method.
• Concentrate.
• Study with definitive goals in mind, not just a time constraint.
• Work in a non-distracting environment.
• Pay attention to all visual and semantic clues in textbooks. Illustrations, diagrams, maps, charts, and the phrase "generally", and "main reasons", introduce major points.
• Use variety when studying. No longer than one hour at a time. After one hour switch topic studied or switch study methods (go from reading to writing).
• At the beginning of each class, do a 10 minute review of the previous class materials.
• Prepare a worksheet, flashcards, etc.
The Best Study Methods Will:
· Cause you to think carefully about assignments.
· Put information into new categories.
· Make relationships between information stand out.
· Make your own sense of assignments. this makes information easier to remember.
Reviewing should begin at the beginning and work through the subsequent assignments. During the semester be sure to keep:
· A well-organized notebook.
· A list of basic vocabulary.
· Important class notes.
· All test questions.
· Well-marked textbook