7 Studying in University
Complete this self-assessment on how you prepare to study
In many classes, a large part of your final grade depends on your exam performance. Therefore, it’s important to adapt to how university tests are designed. Instructors aren’t measuring how much you remember, unlike many high school tests you may have taken. Instead, instructors want evidence of how you apply and analyze concepts. So, passive studying focusing on information gathering, like re-reading and highlighting notes, won’t be as effective anymore. Now, you must spend your time doing active studying using information.
Find top study strategies on the academic skills LibGuide.
Exercises
Let’s practice using studying questions
Using the Zombie Apocalypse article we mentioned in the Taking Reading Notes section or one of your recent lecture notes, ask yourself the following types of questions.
- Application question
- Analysis question
- Evaluation question
Extra study strategies
- Find out the exam format (number of questions, types of questions, time of exam).
- Use learning objectives found on your course syllabus and turn them into study questions.
- Use your weekly calendar and block time to study.
- Have frequent, short study sessions and take five-minute breaks every 30 minutes. Restore yourself by stretching or going outside.