BY JESSICA HAMMER
For most people, studying is not a fun pastime but there are ways to make it a bit more bearable and perhaps even make it pass quicker.
When starting college for the first time the workload can seem daunting. You’re going through schooling for your future career and it’s another stepping stone before joining the workforce.
There are many tips for studying effectively and it is important to try them in order to find the ones that are going to help you.
The choice of location is one of the things to keep in mind.
“Some people are very distracted by everything so if you require a distraction-free zone then you won’t be doing it in the Sanctuary or the middle of the library. Everything is very individual,” said Brenda Anderson, a learning skills adviser at Conestoga College.
Everyone is different when it comes to studying locations and environments. Some people prefer listening to music, others need complete silence. Even types of music can differ from person to person. It is important to find the place where you feel most comfortable and able to concentrate.
It is also important to try and break down what is needed for assignments and when studying for tests. For a test, breaking down what you need to know for it will help. As an example, if your test covers chapter one, two and three then plan when you will write out the notes for each chapter and when you will study them. Making a plan often works as well as keeping a planner of what needs to be done and when.
Anderson said “time can be deceiving.” Problems often arise when you think you have enough time to work on an assignment so you put it off. This could result in a last-minute homework crunch. For some, working last minute can be an advantage, but it could also cause unnecessary stress.
“(I like) staying on top of my curriculum and really having a proactive approach and not doing it the day before,” said Diana Jaramillo, a paralegal student.
If you face some difficulty with your workload or are in need of help with one of your classes, it is important to contact the Learning Commons as soon as possible. The department is located across from Tim Hortons on the Doon campus. They offer free tutoring and you are able to attend workshops that are conducted in small groups. They are there to help you understand your course material as well as help you with your writing and math skills, time management and study strategies.
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