Ram put in long hours every day to study and yet was gripped by exam fears. The very thought of understanding a new concept in Physics scared him. He tried memorizing it instead of learning the subject and as a result, could never remember what he learned just a day before the exam. The learning difficulties Ram faced is merely reflective of poor learning techniques that put all his efforts in vain. Grappling with difficult concepts, having difficulties in memorizing long history lessons, finding it difficult to manage time when writing an exam is some of the many challenges that students often face. These difficulties often wean them away from studies. However, mastering a few useful study techniques can make learning a fun-filled activity. Mastering some of the smart learning techniques is key to achieving good grades. Topping school and college exams are often a result of using important learning techniques. Let’s go through some of the effective techniques that make studying a fun-filled exercise. Inculcating the habit to follow these techniques will help you to enjoy studying even the most challenging lessons in a shorter span of time.

Create your own routine:  The importance of following a study regimen can never be undermined. It not only helps in effective time management but also helps one to find time for all subjects.

Create an outline: Create a study outline before starting a subject. It helps in easy retention and greater clarity of thought.

Kill all sources of distractions when studying: Lack of concentration often creates hindrances in mastering a subject. Frequent distractions (cell phones, television, or even multitasking) can lead to lack of focus. Removing all kinds of distractive thoughts from the mind is also equally important.

Say no to rote-learning: Understanding a concept thoroughly helps in learning it quickly. When we develop a thorough understanding of a subject, we seldom forget it. Blindly memorizing something without proper understanding results in forgetfulness. It also defeats the purpose of learning.

Understanding difficult concepts through games: There are numerous research studies which emphasize on visual memory. We tend to remember more what we see than what we read. Games, pictures, or any visual depiction helps a great deal in understanding concepts, particularly challenging concepts. In today’s age of information technology, there is no dearth of such resources which gamify difficult concepts making them simple and easy to learn.

Take frequent practice exams: A time-tested method of overcoming exam fear is through taking regular examinations. Such practice exams help overcome exam fears and are a great confidence booster.

Re-writing notes: Re-writing a lesson learned helps in memorizing it in a shorter span of time.

Take breaks in between: Prolonged hours at the study table can often be counter-productive. Taking breaks in between active learning is important. A quick break helps to relax the mind.  Cramming the brain with too much information at a given time can result in brain fatigue.

Stay motivated: It is important not to lose motivation when studying something new or difficult. Inculcating thoughts that motivates one can go a long way in overcoming exam fears and staying focused. Several studies have proven the importance of positive thinking and how it can recharge the brain with positive ideas in overcoming hurdles.

Some of the easily adaptable techniques for quick and efficient learning can be summarised as follows:

• Creating an outline
• Using flashcards
• Using mnemonic devices
• Re-writing notes
• Taking practice exams
• Understand and then memorize
• Learning through games
• Kill sources of distraction
• Take practice exams
• Take breaks in between lessons
• Stay motivated

(Article by Ms.Debayani)