Tips for Studying Alone

Posted on November 9th, 2009 by Debra

A young person in middle school asked me to think of ways to study when you don’t have study partners or a person to help you. So, I’ve developed this list.

S = Skim your material before you begin studying so you will have an idea of what you will need to focus on in class.

T = Take your time. Don’t wait until the last minute. Manage your time appropriately. Ask your teacher how much time you have between the beginning of a unit and the test. Read a little extra each day (10-20 minutes for people in school and 30-45 minutes for people in college) in addition to your regular homework.

U = Understand your material. This might be hard for you if you aren’t familiar with a new topic. One possible solution is to write questions to ask your teacher or peers when you see them again. Keep the list of questions handy so you can easily write them down or ask them in class.

D = Do research online. Sometimes a quick search on the topic will give you a good idea on what you’re studying. www.dictionary.com helps with new vocabulary words.

Y = Yes! Keep a positive attitude. If you need a short break, take it, but don’t give up!

If you remember to S.T.U.D.Y., you shouldn’t have a problem!

Listen to more tips.

There are so many ways to have fun studying, even if you are alone. Here are some more ideas…

Study with a computer nearby for quick references.
Turn off music, TV, and cell phones to avoid distraction. These simple acts will help you focus.
Call a friend to see what they think of the material – but keep the conversation short and stay on topic!
Ask your teacher for a few extra minutes 1-1 to explain a specific question.
Turn chapter headings into questions.
Design your own list of new vocabulary words (sometimes the words they give you just aren’t enough).
Know how to explain what you don’t know (instead of saying “I don’t understand,” think of a more specific question).
Make relationships between ideas and concepts.
Making flashcards are easy and help your note taking abilities.
Pretend like the teacher has asked you to write questions you think should be on the test.

Feel free to add to this list…

…and

Good Luck!

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