The Study Cycle

We previously gave you some tips about studying and using active recall to your advantage, but today we’re going to hone in on one style of studying: the Study Cycle. This cycle focuses on intertwining elements of studying into daily life, rather than using just one or two strategies the night before a test. In just five steps, you’ll know how to effectively study for even the hardest assessments, so let’s get started.

1. Preview

Before you learn the material, take a glance at your notes, powerpoint, or textbook that the teacher is using. This will help you familiarize yourself with the material even before learning it, so that it comes more naturally to you from the start.

2. In class

While in class, pay attention to the material. Instead of zoning out or getting distracted by your device, engage yourself in the class. Ask questions and take meaningful notes, so that you can help your mind grasp the new information.

3. Review

A short period of time after your class (or when you get home), reopen your notes and fill in any missing pieces. Try to identify any parts that you’re slightly confused about, and add more information about that concept to your notes.

4. Study

This isn’t just studying the night before a test—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. Throughout the days leading up to your next assessment, spend some time quizzing yourself on the material or reviewing your notes. Here are some of our tips for how to study efficiently and effectively.

5. Check

This is what you’ve been leading up to! After all of this work, it’s time to see what you know. Take some time and see if you can teach the material to someone else, because that shows true mastery of the subject. And, if you have difficulty with any parts, that shows you what you should spend a little more time on.

Source: https://success.rice.edu/ssi-advising/student-resources/study-skills/studying-test-prep

We hope that the Study Cycle will help you ace your tests this school year. It might be a little discouraging at times, but you’ll end up with wonderful results. And, if you want to see any other study tips and tricks, check out the rest of the Blog page!