Originally posted by skypryn
Anybody who is planning on doing well in the 2004 HSC can you please give me a bit of strategy?
Here this is what I *tried* to follow throughout 2003. Obtained from the Monash Uni website. I've always lacked in organisational skills/efficient study habits
Quote:
Stay motivated
Be aware of your goals and be honest with yourself. If you are studying a course without any real enthusiasm, you will need to work even harder to be successful. Remind yourself why you chose to embark on this course in the first place. It is essential that you resolve these matters before you can do justice to yourself and the course. Lack of motivation should be treated seriously.
A place apart
Set apart a place for study. This should be private, free from noise and other distractions, and it should be comfortable, but not conducive to sleep.
Time apart
Set apart some time for study. Neglecting to work consistently throughout the year is a reliable method for achieving poor results. It has been tried and tested by many, with the same results poor marks!
The amount of time you need to spend on study will vary from person to person. An average full-time student aiming for a pass degree should work a forty hour week, which includes contact hours and private study.
Remember, however, that study is only one part of your life, and it is important to plan for other activities, such as exercise and time with family and friends, to ensure a balanced lifestyle.
Devise a study schedule
One of the most important factors in developing effective study techniques is the existence of a study schedule. Your study schedule should be tailored to your lifestyle, and include personal, work and family commitments.
A comprehensive study plan includes planning for events across the semester, as well as those that occur on a weekly and daily basis. Once you have received outlines for each subject you should plot out major events for the semester. This includes such things as weddings, birthdays, holidays etc., as well as dates for assessment requirements for each subject such as assignments, presentations and examinations.
Once you have devised your study program for the semester, you can set about preparing a weekly study schedule. Draw up a timetable to assist you in planning your personal study time around scheduled class time and other activities. With each study session, make sure you are organised before you begin. Decide what you are going to study and for how long. In your plan, include some rest periods of approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Work energetically, and if helpful, start off with something you find interesting. Do not avoid the more difficult work, and sometimes expect to struggle to understand some of the work. Most things worth having require effort!
Keep up-to-date
Keep up-to-date with your study. Review your notes following each class as this will assist you in retaining information. Revise material regularly throughout the semester as new topics often require an understanding of earlier work. For this reason it is also important that you seek assistance if you are having difficulties in understanding any subject matter.
Get the most out of each study session
Do not confuse being "busy" with studying. It is simple to occupy a few hours by rewriting notes, browsing through textbooks, rearranging books and thinking of reasons for studying "later" when the mood is "right". Study is a disciplined activity which is hard work, but it can be enjoyable.
It is important to evaluate regularly whether your study methods are effective. At the end of each class/tutorial try to assess realistically how well you have learnt and understood the work, and plan follow-up sessions accordingly. Identify problem areas early to allow opportunity to discuss concerns with your Subject or Course Coordinator.
Don't be afraid to seek assistance
Many factors impact on how well we cope with the demands of tertiary study. Often a little support and guidance can go a long way in helping you to get on the right track. If you find that you are struggling with the course content, or need assistance in developing effective study habits, don't be afraid to seek help...........
