Imagery for text
This technique consists of developing internal images that elaborate on the material being
studied. Dunlonsky’s research showed that the benefits of mental imagery are short-lived. The
strategy also does not seem to be widely applicable.
Here’s some outline simple changes you can make and soon you'll be on your way to becoming
the student you've always wanted to become.
1. Set goals
Goals, both short and long-term, are a great way to measure your success. If you don’t have
goals in sight, you have nothing to achieve or strive for in your courses. If you set concrete goals
for yourself, it’s easier to become motivated and measure your success in those goals. Make
sure your goals are realistic! While you should challenge yourself, you shouldn't set yourself up
for failure, either. Remember, you can always set higher goals once you've achieved your first
set.
2. Adopt and stick to a study schedule
Scheduling is vital to maintaining a healthy learning balance and keeping up with rigorous
courses. 3. Stay well-rested
If you’re awake and alert, you’re certainly more likely to absorb information given in class,
during study sessions and in class activities and participation. Think of it as an equation: awake
+ alertness = A’s.
4. Take advantage of educator resources
In addition to attending class, there are a variety of resources available to aid students in
thriving and achieving in class. TA’s, office hours and study review sessions are amongst the
resources offered within specific classes. Additionally, many high schools and colleges offer
tutoring sessions free of charge to students who seek extra help with their courses.
5. Healthy study techniques for proper exam preparation
Study techniques considered “healthy” include balance, time-management and avoiding all-
night study “cram” sessions. Information is certainly easier to absorb when reviewed in
increments, rather than procrastinating until the last minute. 6. Develop note-taking skills
Listening and taking notes actively during class not only ensures the recording of accurate
information, but also reinforces the information through recording the information as you take
it in. Have you ever gone back to your notes when it comes time to study for the exam and find
that they are illegible or difficult to understand? It's helpful to go over your note after class and
either rewrite them or outline the key information while it's still fresh in your mind. You'll find
it's much easier to utilize your notes and retain clearer information, come exam time. Clearly, it
also provides you with any important information that was only mentioned in class when it
comes time to review and study the exam material.
7. Extracurricular activities
Try to create a life outside of academics, like participation in extracurricular activities, such as
intramural sports or college clubs. Contrary to popular belief, extracurricular activities increase a
student’s overall college experience, contribute to the learning process and aiding in balancing
scheduling skills.
8. Study buddies
Collaborating with other students is a great way to learn - as long as you're sure to choose
students who you'll stay on task with. Try finding various students in your class, rather than
friends you already have. It can expand your social group and you're more likely to stay focused
on the school work. Students who form study groups with one another can often learn more
through learning by teaching. When students explain concepts to one another, they are able to
learn and absorb the information more easily. Inversely, students that may need clarification on
