"Studying Advice: Tips for College Students" StudentMentor.org's Student Video Blog Series

Summary

Kristen from studentmentor.org shares valuable study tips for college students. She emphasizes finding a distraction-free environment, such as a library, to help focus better. Kristen recommends using flashcards, either physical or digital, and suggests taking practice tests from textbooks to identify weak areas. She advises studying with friends or classmates for collaborative learning, and to have others quiz you on material to avoid overconfidence. Lastly, she encourages students to reach out to professors for help when struggling, as they are usually willing to provide guidance or schedule group reviews.

Takeaways

• 😀 Everyone has a different study method, so experiment to find what works best for you.
• 📚 Avoid distractions by studying outside of your dorm room, like in a library or café.
• 📝 Flashcards are an effective way to memorize quick definitions and important concepts.
• 💻 Use online flashcard platforms to create and review study materials without buying physical cards.
• 🔢 For subjects like math, use the practice tests in the back of your textbook to identify knowledge gaps.
• 👫 Have someone quiz you to catch areas you might overlook while studying solo.
• 👥 Study groups can be a great way to exchange knowledge and fill in gaps in understanding.
• ✉️ Don’t hesitate to email your professor if you're confused or struggling with certain concepts.
• 🗓 Some professors may arrange group study sessions if multiple students have similar questions.
• 👍 Taking initiative and using different resources can make studying more effective and less stressful.

Q & A

What is Kristen's first study tip for students?

Kristen suggests getting out of your dorm room to avoid distractions, such as roommates, TV, or friends. She recommends studying in a quiet place like a library or a café.

Why does Kristen recommend using flashcards?

Kristen recommends flashcards because they are an effective way to memorize definitions and other simple information. She also mentions the convenience of using online flashcard tools, so you don't have to buy physical index cards.

How can practice tests from the textbook help students prepare for exams?

Kristen suggests using practice tests from the back of the textbook, especially for subjects like math. These tests help students identify gaps in their knowledge and provide an opportunity to review what they might not fully understand.

Why does Kristen believe it's helpful to have someone else quiz you?

Kristen believes that having someone else quiz you is beneficial because it forces you to recall information without relying on your notes. This can reveal which parts you think you know but might forget during a test.

What benefit does studying in a group provide, according to Kristen?

Kristen explains that studying in a group allows students to share knowledge. You may have answers others don't, and vice versa, which can lead to a better collective understanding of the material.

What should students do if they are struggling to understand a concept?

Kristen advises students to email their professor if they are struggling with a concept. Professors are usually willing to help, and some may even offer to hold extra study sessions if multiple students are having difficulties.

What makes studying with a group more effective than studying alone?

Studying with a group is more effective because it provides diverse perspectives. You can learn from others' understanding, correct each other's mistakes, and cover areas that you might have overlooked.

How can making your study environment enjoyable help you focus?

Kristen suggests making your study environment enjoyable by getting a coffee or food before you start. This can make studying feel less like a chore and help you maintain focus for longer periods.

What does Kristen say about relying on a safety net while studying?

Kristen warns that relying on having your notes in front of you can create a false sense of security. When quizzed without notes, students often realize they forget information they assumed they knew well.

How does Kristen suggest experimenting with study methods?

Kristen encourages students to experiment with different study methods, as everyone learns differently. By trying various approaches, students can find the techniques that work best for them.