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Developing good
study habits may be the key to success
by Myrna LaFoy & Karen Pollard
Many children have intentions of being good
students, but they do not know strategies to apply to reach their goals.
Here are some simple ideas parents can implement to help their child become
organized and successful.
Time
Management
When and where do you study?
1.
Make sure you have good lighting in a comfortable place where you
will not get sleepy. Make sure you have the necessary materials such as
books (dictionary), paper, pencils, and etc.
2.
Study a little each night. Studying the night before the test is
memorization not learning.
3.
What is the quality of your study time? What are your priorities?
Use the sequence of when assignments are due to organize your time better
and avoid distractions (T.V.).
Scheduling
Use agenda/planner to plan assignments. Schedule long term projects, and
begin working as soon as possible. Do not schedule every hour of every
day! Plan a study block on a regular basis and stick to your schedule.
Always keep your agenda/planner updated and carry it with your for easy
reference. Make the schedule a habit.
Successful
study strategies
Intend or plan to study and learn (don’t just put in time – do it with a
purpose). Make up your mind to be successful and achieve your goal (you
have to believe). Take advantage of your learning style.
1.
If you are a visual learner, write or type your notes. Use color to
highlight key points, because memory can increase by as much as 50 percent
when using color. Draw or use pictures and diagrams. Watch content related
movies and TV programs.
2.
If you are a kinesthetic (hands-on) learner, walk or pace while
studying. Use objects to solve problems. Move about while studying and
take frequent breaks. Write on surfaces with your finger. Take notes while
reading.
3.
If you are an auditory learner, record your notes on tape and play
them back. Play soft music (the key is soft music). Make up rhymes or
poems to help with fact. Repeat things orally.
4.
Be aware of your teacher or instructor’s teaching style. Students
who can accurately predict this learn best.
Study
techniques
1.
Research shows we remember what we do first and last. Study for 10
to 15 minutes, take a 5-minute break, study again for 10 to 15 minutes and
continue until finished.
2.
Be aware of your body’s needs. If you are a “morning” person, study
in the morning. If you are a “night” person study at night.
3.
Vary your routine. Begin with the most difficult task and get it
done so it’s not hanging over your head.
4.
Allow time for information to soak in.
5.
Get to know someone in each class in case you need help.
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