College Happenings

The college course workload can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting the most out of your study time can help you to manage your course work more efficiently, which can help to reduce college stress. Here are 5 ways to increase what you get out of the study time you invest:

1. Try to schedule your most challenging studying for when you are most alert, rather than fighting your natural rhythms. You’ll accomplish more with less effort.
2. Collect what you need before you start – course materials, food, something to drink, etc. – so you don’t have the distraction of having to get up to get stuff.
3. Find your learning style, and capitalize on it. Some people are more visually oriented, reading works. Others need to be more actively engaged, such as through creating outlines, using computer software, or working with a focused study partner.
4. Build upon your knowledge daily, rather a lump sum sort of studying. This enhances the amount you’ll actually retain, you’ll be less likely have to restudy old materials in order to grasp the new.
5. Be firm with yourself and others. Put your full effort in while you are “on the clock” and you’ll get a lot more done than if you are answering the door, the phone, e-mail or instant messages.

Related Article: 5 College Study Tips to Manage Time, and Maximize Effectiveness