Hi, guys! Whilst planning my next few months to do well on my final exams, I started researching and found a few great study techniques that are a bit underrated. Thus, I compiled a post with information about each one and all the materials you need to put them to use. These are most useful if you’ve already studied the material and are now starting to revise.
This method was coined by Nobel Prize winner Richard Feynman. This system works by writing down everything you remember about the topic you’re currently revising in a blank piece of paper. When you get stuck, go back to your study materials. The gaps in your knowledge should be blatant after you finish. Review and simplify. Keep repeating until you know for certain that there’s nothing left out and you’ve successfully learned the topic. :-)
For this method you will need:
Blank piece of paper
Pen/Pencil
This method has been gaining traction for the past few years but it still doesn’t get the recognition it should. It’s fairly simple. It consists of time intervals between study sessions, which allows you store information better in your long-term memory. While there aren’t set times for when to do your next revision session, I’d recommend the one by Piotr Wozniak:
First repetition: 1 day
Second repetition: 7 days
Third repetition: 16 days
Fourth repetition: 35 days
This method can be used both through an analog system and a digital one.
One of the simplest techniques to implement spaced repetition while using paper flashcards is the Leitner system. First, you decide how many boxes you need for your system. Each of your boxes represents a different study time interval:
Every flashcard starts out in Box 1. When you get a flashcard right, it passes to the next box. If you get a card wrong, it goes back to Box 1 – even if it was on Box 4. This makes sure you are constantly reviewing the materials. Remember to devise a calendar with the dates and boxes you need to revise each day.
For this method you will need:
Boxes or simply different colored rubbers to differentiate the piles
Flashcards
Pen/Pencil
If however, you prefer a digital method, Anki is the best option for you. It is available online, on both Windows & Mac and there’s also an incredible practical app. It uses the spaced repetition method while taking the trouble of having to hand write hundreds of flashcards and remembering when to study each one.
Simply create an account, then a deck in which you’ll add your flashcards. The app and website allow you to add images and/or sounds to the flashcards. Customize them all you want. Once you’ve finished, save them and check the app every day to revise the flashcards of the day.
For this method you will need:
Anki app (iOS, Android) and/or website
I’ve been guilty in the past for not using this method. I got so caught up in my perfectionism that I didn’t even want to try. I learned, though, that getting things wrong is not a sign of failure and that persisting until you get it right is the real strength (and discipline) you ought to have. Do not let your procrastination and/or perfectionism prevent you from learning your weaknesses on a topic and not reach the grade you were hoping for.
Time yourself while taking the test and then correct your answers with a different colored pencil/pen so you can differentiate between correct and wrong answers.
For this method you will need:
Past papers
Pen/Pencil
This method is really helpful if you have oral assessments and/or your professor uses the Socratic method in class. You can practice your speech and knowledge all at the same time. Find someone who’s willing to listen to you talk about the topic you’re studying. Even if no one’s willing, you can still explain the matter to an object in the house. Don’t get embarrassed by this! While speaking, you’re organising your thoughts and only when explaining to someone else can you really assess your knowledge.
For this method you will need:
Your voice
Someone/Something who loves you very much
Yes, I know, these aren’t revisions methods. But as helpful as the previous systems were, they won’t work if you aren’t sane in body and spirit. It’s incredibly important that you rest. Teenagers (13 to 17 years old) ought to sleep from 8 to 10 hours every day, while young adults (18 to 25) only need 7 to 9. You should also get fresh air and exercise. This helps with mental alertness, concentration, an efficient memory and a positive mood. Stay hydrated throughout the day. & please, don’t skip meals!
For this method you will need:
Proper sleep (x, x, x, x, x)
Exercise (x, x, x)
Healthy diet (x, x, x, x)
im trying to clean out my school binders and i dont know why but every time i go to throw away schoolwork i always hesitate. ‘what if i want to use this for studying later’ says i, the dumbass, who has not studied, for a single thing, in my entire goddamn life
3.13.16+4:26pm // desk organization complete! whew, i am feeling much better now that everything is coming together.
▫️R E A L I T Y ▪️
Since taking some time off Tumblr and coming back, I’ve decided to unsubscribe to the typical studyblr method of making notes look nice, of editing photos, and of romanticising my life. I understand that this will make my content less appealing on an aesthetic level, but I’ve come to really dislike a lot of the superficiality that being online perpetuates. I agree that beautiful study photos are just that: beautiful, awe-inspiring, and maybe even motivational, but I feel that often seeing these photos can dishearten others about their own progress, and often even those who post such photos feel locked in to appeal to the masses on a constant basis, which isn’t realistic or maintainable.
I can’t promise that I won’t edit my photos, that I won’t reblog aesthetically pleasing pictures, or that I won’t choose to withhold information about my student life, but I want to be more open about struggles as well as victories because even though most of us are just strangers on the Internet who know one another by username or first name, I feel that a lot of us go through similar struggles and cope with it alone (or more alone than need be) for the sake of appearances.
I am going to start using and tracking “realstudy” in addition to my own username, feel free to join if you want (or don’t, that’s cool too).
Mon xxx
Studying session in the night 🌛 Sometimes I think that books are the best teachers.
This is the first article under the 3 part series of Taking Control Of Your Life. To view the other articles under this is series head here!
Ever had that weird feeling when you’re sitting (or peeing) and suddenly it’s like you’re losing everything? (I mean, ok, you’re losing your pee, lol). Everything just becomes too much, and you either prepare to cry, (bonus points if you curl up in a fetal position, ‘cause on the toilet seat that’s practically gymnastics) or grab a bag of popcorn, your midnight bathroom snack, not caring that you’re going bonkers (I respect that, you da hood). Except for the buttered popcorn, nothing about it is fun, yet it’s happened to every single one of us.
To cut short this intro, here’s how NOT to lose your shit. It’s time to take complete ownership of your life (someone cue the dramatic music, I don’t have a stereo. #BROKE-AF).
Someone amazing once said “your brain is your most valuable tool.” That’s true. Once you learn how to control your mind, you will start to see that we, being the dumb idiots that we are, over-complicate the simplest of things. You’re not losing your shit (but finish that popcorn anyway). Your mind just convinced you that you are. My wise friend once said that it’s either you directing your mind or it’s the other way around. Show your mind who’s boss and conquer it. Here’s how:
Don’t make excuses. Not only does it piss off Miss Honey and your dog (your dog has better things to eat, my dude), but it robs you of the opportunity to learn from your mistakes. As I always say, life is not a report card. It’s never perfect, and it’s the little flaws that push you to aim higher. In the end, life is just growth as a human being (or as a basic hoe, like me). Here’s an example of taking full responsibility for your actions:
Action: You didn’t submit your essay on time.
Normal response: “I didn’t know about the essay.”
“My dog ate up my entire computer.”
“I was saving the world from zombies.”
Conqueror talk: “I didn’t get in my essay, for that no excuse is valid. I have learned from this and you can expect better next time.”
Miss Honey will be pleased.
I’m a firm believer that emotions hinder productivity. Now, don’t get me wrong, emotions are great. There are many things to shed tears on. Tris from Divergent died. Trump became President. You just got friend-zoned. It’s great to have emotions in cases like these. But when it comes down to getting work done, it’s better to have a firm control over them.
Imagine finishing that crappy essay 3 mins before your deadline when Sophia from book club comes up all like “Did you hear what Archie just said to me? He’s such a jerk.” That’s torture. Honestly, it’s a miracle we get team assignments done because there is always that one friend who’s either crying over her ex or dying over how cute puppies are.
When working, choose productivity over pride. The reason being, it not only affects your quality of work by distracting you but also makes you the 90 year old grannie shouting from behind in the supermarket line. People legit fly away in the other direction when they see you.
But of course, in other cases, go ahead and release the waterworks. I’m still crying over Mufasa’s death anyway.
(I’m about to get deep, wearing that diving suit, alright). Conquering is hard. There’ll be days when you’ll feel like doing anything but that boring report Miss Honey assigned. Like, who cares whether the Nile or the Amazon is longer?
However, the mindset of a conqueror is so strong that the little demon called procrastination doesn’t stand a chance. You’ll see us partying the whole weekend because we already slayed ‘em rivers and hunted down those fishies Friday. Wanna join in? Here are some aspects of the conqueror mindset:
Procrastination isn’t allowed. We understand that procrastination not only wastes precious time but basically means partying on a guilty mind. We would rather be that person drinking all them shots than be Abby sitting in the corner, worrying about her calc HW.
Discipline. Every conqueror knows that things need to be done at the right time (and in the right way, of course). Playing slither.io is great, but if you’re hooked for 7 hours and your poor report on rivers has turned into a dust bunny, then mate, you are not conquering. Get up and get the job done already.
Time management. It’s 11:58 pm. Your report (lol, get a grip mate) has finally been wiped of all that dust, and you’re settling to start on it. You open the first page of the assignment and have a mini heart attack. It says: Bring in by 12 am, xx Feb ‘18). To become a conqueror, hence, you must learn to travel back in time. JK. To become a conqueror, it’s important to value time because it’s priceless. A year from now, those hours you spent eating all that snake kill in slither.io won’t mean shit, but if you grind, if you choose to work hard, then every single moment will be memorable and pay off.
So, how do you do it? Ok, grab your notebook, grab your cauldron, and jot down. Let’s see what we got here… ‘Add a horn of bicorn’ and just a little bit of -what’s that- salamander blood?” *Potion explodes* Um, sorry for that mess. *Waves wand to clean*
Point is, there’s no secret spell to becoming disciplined and focused. Put down that wand, please. I’ll explain.
If you truly want to take control of your life, you must know your why. Why do you want to? Maybe you’re sick of procrastinating and letting yourself down? Maybe you’re tired of being a couch potato and want to get that ass to the gym? Maybe Abby wants to drink them tequila shots too? Because unless you really want it, you won’t get it. It’s important to know your why and let it lead you into battle as your motivation.
In short, you have to be a superhero (I choose to be Superwoman!) and learn to conquer your life before you save Kim from the fire. Your life is truly valuable, and here’s a secret: If you want to get results you have never gotten before, you’re going to have to do things you’ve never done before. Everyone gets the same 24 hours in a day, the same opportunities, and the same chances to follow their dreams. They just make different choices. If you choose to re-watch F.R.I.E.N.D.S. for the 58th time while balancing chips in one hand and popcorn in the other, our world will lose one of its heroes.
But if you do decide to put on that superhero cape, I’m with you. Kim, hang on. We’re coming for you.
general tips for getting your shit together
loving yourself and letting go of negativity
understanding the meaning of your life
Well, it’s a wrap! I post new articles every week (the schedule’s up on my blog’s front page) so you can follow me if you are interested in killing the game & conquering life bc I’ll do my best to help you in the tough yet amazing journey called life.
If you want to go thru my blog, I would rec picking your choice of post from my masterpost list! Or, if you want to read something insightful on your cozy Sunday afternoon while chilling under blankets, I would recommend reading one of my interviews. + You can also request a blog post! For that, leave your question in my ask box!
I hope you are well, stay strong and conquer life, you conqueror.
- nandini (´。• ᵕ •。`) ♡
(I finished my freshman year this spring with a 4.0 GPA, an off-campus research internship, and three professors contacting me suggesting that I apply for a fulbright scholarship. These tips aren’t coming out of my ass.)
1. LISTEN TO ME WHEN I SAY THIS: YOU DO NOT NEED TO “GET INVOLVED” IN STUPID CLUBS IF YOU DON’T ENJOY THEM. Hear “get involved! :)” for the 1000th time and just barf in your mouth a little and move on. If you work hard and get good grades, and socialize with people on campus when you have free time (it comes more naturally than you think) YOU WILL. BE. FINE. Actually better than fine. You’ll have time to get a real job/internship, which by the way, is what the real world wants to see you prioritizing. Moral of the story: Only join clubs if they help your personality thrive and feel healthy. Don’t do them because you feel pressured.
2. DON’T TAKE SHIT FROM A N Y O N E. I know you’re trying to fit in and take the stance of trying to make everyone happy to make sure you’ll have plenty of friends. But you have to realize that you literally just met these people, and they just met you. If they create an uncomfortable environment for you that makes college harder to cope with, get them the fuck out of your life. Ain’t nobody got time for people’s high school-ass drama.
3. SKIP YOUR CLASSES SOMETIMES. If you really have your shit together, it won’t matter. Your school will say the amount of skips you can get away with before it harms your grade. Use. Them.
4. BECOME THE MASTER OF WRITING ESSAYS IN ONE NIGHT. You will have to. I’m telling you right the fuck now. And you can get an A, if you work your lil ass off. I’ve done it many times.
5. DON’T CARE FOR EVEN 1 SECOND WHAT OTHER PEOPLE THINK OF YOU. If you wanna wear sweats and no makeup, do it. If you want to dress up and take time to put on makeup, do it. If you want to stay away from partying, do it. If you want to party, have a good ass time. If anyone has enough time to judge you, they need to be studying harder or getting a hobby. Make yourself comfortable and happy as fuck and enjoy your time in college worry-free.
6. BE THE ASSHOLE WITH A TABLET OR LAPTOP IN LECTURE. You won’t have time to copy it all down. You’ll be miserable. Just trust me. I know studies say its more effective to write stuff down for memory, but, write them out later or something. Learned that one the hard way.
7. DON’T REWRITE YOUR NOTES IF IT DOESN’T HELP YOU STUDY. If you know doing that doesn’t help you memorize, don’t do it, period. Or, if you have a collossal asston of notes (like I did) it isn’t even worth rewriting them all in the first place. I’ve fallen down that hole and lost motivation and time. Just reread them or make flashcards or whatever. Study for effectiveness, not aesthetic.
8. BE PREPARED FOR LAB TO GO THE “WHOLE TIME.” Yah, you’re gonna see 3 hours on that brand-shiny-new schedule of yours and be like there’s no way it’ll go that long, right? LOL about that. Just mentally brace yourself. Eat and drink beforehand for the love of god we don’t need hangry people handling chemicals.
9. COMMUTING DOESN’T MAKE YOU A LONER. Just. No. If you live close to campus, are comfortable with commuting, and know you’ll save yourself MAJOR debt by doing it, do it and don’t feel a fucking ounce of guilt about it. It’ll be some early mornings, but your fresh out of college broke ass will thank you, and you’ll use your time more effectively. (Plus you get a non grimy shower like??)
10. LOVE YOUR NEW FINE ASS SELF. College is a fresh start. Put energy into who you have always wanted to be. And don’t compromise that out of social anxiety and embarrassment. You’ll be happy and thank yourself if you step out of your comfort zone to be the person you’ve always had in mind.
Bitches love to put things into lists. Moreover, bitches love numbered shit. Here’s some numbered shit in list format to help you not suck in higher education. You’re welcome.
1. Go to class. Like 210% serious. I don’t give a shit if you’re a get by on nothing, A+ slacker. You’re fucking paying for this crap so you might as well get the services owed to you. Take your ass to class even if you zone out 99% of the time. You know 1% more than you did when you walked up in there. Congrats, asshole.
2. All that free time you have during your first week of classes? Make it your bitch. Don’t just print the goddamn syllabus and be like all done. No motherfucker. Take a good fucking look at that assignment list. What’s due next week? Yeah, do that shit now bc I know you don’t have anything else to do. Then when you’re coughing up a lung six weeks into the semester and don’t feel like getting your ass up to do that calculus homework, you’ll remember this week. You’ll remember that you’ve been a week ahead this whole damn semester. Pat yourself on the back, ass wipe.
3. Prepare yo self. No seriously. You got notes to print for class? Sure you could be like all those other bitches and just shove them into your backpack, or you could actually /prepare/ for class. I’m talking looking that shit over, identifying key concepts, getting a decent grasp of the material before your ass is even in class. You a STEM major? Yeah, make this kinda shit your life because now class is like one bomb ass group review session. Again, you’re welcome.
4. Snack like a motherfucker, but save that junk food shit for the weekends. From now on, you are a fucking health guru during the week or if you’re a slacker like me, at least on the days you have class. Fruits? Hell yeah. Pack some of those. Mind wandering in class? Snack on some apple slices. Can’t stay awake? Keep eating some almonds or some shit, but don’t be that bitch with the potato chips. Just don’t.
5. Read. Yeah, you heard me. Read and I’m not just talking assigned reading. I bet my left butt cheek that your campus library has /something/ of interest to you. Commuting and don’t want to drive out there? Library databases bro. We’re in the digital age, motherfucker. I’d bet my other butt cheek that the shit you want is in a nice little PDF somewhere. But na man, you thinking maybe you want to go into computer science? Check out computer science books and eat them up bro. You don’t like reading them? Probably not the field for you. You a biology major in your second year? Yeah dumbass. Time to break out the bio books and not the ones your professor is shoving in your face. Amaze your friends and teachers with your out of class knowledge. Be a fucking star.
everyone is getting into relationships and growing up and I’m just getting lazier and finding more tv series to watch